Gesturing Towards Decolonial Futures

Abstract

In this article we review learnings from our collaborative efforts to engage with the complexities and challenges of decolonization across varied educational contexts. To do so, we consider multiple interpretations of decolonization, and multiple dimensions of decolonial theory and practice – in particular, the ecological, cognitive, affective, relational, and economic dimensions. Rather than offer normative definitions or prescriptions for what decolonization entails or how it should be enacted, we seek to foster greater sensitivity to the potential circularities in this work, and identify opportunities and openings for responsible, context-specific collective experiments with otherwise possibilities for (co)existence. Thus, we emphasize a pedagogical approach to decolonization that recognizes the role of complexity, complicity, and uncertainty.

Keywords

• decolonization; modernity; colonialism; pedagogy