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Denizen

Ethnocide and American Politics with Barrett Holmes Pitner

Jan 29, 2025
Barrett Holmes Pitner, the author of "The Crime Without a Name" and founder of the Sustainable Culture Lab, delves into the concept of ethnocide—the cultural erasure of communities. He argues that Trump’s re-election reflects America's long-standing issues with racism and capitalism. The discussion pivots around redefining freedom, the philosophical underpinnings of identity, and the importance of cultural healing through rituals. Barrett's idea of 'Eŭ-topia' emphasizes nurturing spaces for communal growth, challenging us to transform systemic oppression through collective action.
01:14:46

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Barrett Holmes Pitner defines ethnocide as the eradication of a people's culture while physically retaining them, reflecting historical oppression.
  • The discussion emphasizes that America's ideals of freedom and equality have often coexisted with white supremacy and patriarchy, influenced by its founding dynamics.

Deep dives

Understanding Ethnocide in America

Ethnocide, a term coined by Barrett Holmes Pitner, refers to the systematic destruction of a people's culture while retaining their physical existence. This concept highlights the historical context of African culture's obliteration through colonization and slavery in the United States. By examining America's racial dynamics through this lens, it becomes clear that the intent has been to suppress African cultural identity to facilitate oppression, making it easier to control these populations. This acknowledgment of ongoing cultural erasure is crucial in understanding the systemic oppression faced by Black communities in America.

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