Indigenous atheism defies settler expectations: Jonathan Simmons, ‘Indigenous Atheists in Canada: Challenging Assumptions and Navigating Belonging’, Secular Studies, 2024 | settler colonial studies blog

Indigenous atheism defies settler expectations: Jonathan Simmons, ‘Indigenous Atheists in Canada: Challenging Assumptions and Navigating Belonging’, Secular Studies, 2024

26Apr24

Abstract: This study addresses a gap in existing scholarship on Indigenous people in Canada who identify as atheists. To shed light on this underrepresented group, I conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 18 Indigenous atheists from three different cities. Through these interviews, I sought to explore their experiences, exposure to non-Indigenous atheists, and perceptions of Indigenous spirituality and traditions. My findings offer valuable insights into the nuanced experiences of Indigenous atheists, highlighting the need for more research and inclusive discussions within the broader atheist and secular communities. It also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the heterogeneity of Indigenous peoples and moving beyond monolithic representations of Indigenous beliefs and practices. By amplifying the voices of Indigenous atheists, this article contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the intersections between atheism, Indigenous identity, and spirituality, while also highlighting the need for further research in this area.

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