Response Paper #4: Climate Change and Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic
Marino, Elizabeth (2015) Fierce Climate, Sacred Ground. University of Alaska Press, Fairbanks. Chapters 1‒4. Using the source above, briefly summarize the history of Shishmaref, Alaska, and the impact of colonialism on their traditional lifeways (Ch. 4). Following on these concepts, discuss why the village has become the icon for “climate change disaster” (Ch. 3) or the canary in the coalmine. The author discusses “vulnerability” vs “resilience” (Ch. 2, pp. 29-30) with respect to addressing the issues related to climate change for Indigenous villages in coastal Alaska, what does she mean by these concepts, and how do they relate to the future of Shishmaref? Tips: Your first paragraph should provide a thesis statement and set up your response to the text Include your own voice in evaluating the material Your essay should be about 500 words please don’t go much longer as Erika has 55 papers to grade You will be evaluated on your presentation of a clear thesis, discussion of the questions asked above and, most importantly, your ability to convey an understanding of the material
