The United States does not teach a history of America, it teaches a mythology. Whether it's the myth that Christopher Columbus discovered America, Abraham Lincoln abolished slavery or Donald Trump was the only Presidential candidate in 2016 (and 2020) promising to "Make America Great Again", there are many Unsettling Truths we must look at as a nation if we want to create common memory.
Video: The Doctrine of Discovery: A Lecture by Mark Charles
I invite all people, especially Americans, to watch this video. But I must warn you, the history contained within will not be easy to hear. The Doctrine of Discovery is seldom talked about in America. Even thought it has shaped and influenced our nation, people, churches and foundations in some very deep and profound ways.... Continue Reading →
Public Lecture: A Native Perspective on Columbus Day
On Columbus Day 2017, instead of protesting the Columbus Day ceremony that is held in Washington DC every year, I gave a public lecture to provide a counter narrative to the inaccurate history taught that "Columbus discovered America." In this lecture I lay out the Doctrine of Discovery and conclude with a call for the... Continue Reading →
The Fleeting Beauty of Fireworks
Fireworks are cool, but they never seem to last very long. Most public shows are between 20 and 30 minutes. And the grand finale, when the majority of the fireworks are launched to light up the sky in a blaze of glory that can be seen for miles, usually lasts only a minute or two.... Continue Reading →