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American Prestige

E194 - Decolonization as Advocacy, Pt. 1 w/ Lydia Walker

Jan 21, 2025
Lydia Walker, Assistant Professor at Ohio State University and author of *States-in-Waiting*, takes center stage. She challenges traditional narratives surrounding decolonization, emphasizing the importance of local autonomy movements. The discussion dives into the role of transnational advocacy networks and key figures like Naga leader Angami Zapu Phizo. Walker highlights the Naga people's unique identity shaped during World War II and the complexities of their quest for recognition, revealing the broader implications for marginalized communities today.
53:47

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Lydia Walker emphasizes the need to challenge dominant narratives of decolonization that often overlook the experiences of marginalized ethnic groups.
  • The podcast discusses the significance of transnational advocacy networks in amplifying the voices of Naga nationalism on a global stage.

Deep dives

The Genesis of a Counter-Narrative

The book 'States in Waiting' by Lydia Walker explores the complexities of global decolonization, particularly focusing on the internal ethnic and nationalist movements within post-colonial states like India. Walker emphasizes the creation of a counter-narrative that challenges dominant histories that celebrate nationalism while neglecting the varied experiences of marginalized groups. By drawing from her time in India and specifically examining the Northeast region, she illustrates how the lens of colonialism continues to shape contemporary issues. The nuanced exploration of how communities define their histories helps to illuminate the often-invisible struggles for recognition faced by these groups.

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