“Dr. Cristina Stanciu, a significant figure in the field of Indigenous and Multiethnic Literatures of the United States, has been appointed as the first Fulbright Canada Research Chair in Justice and Reconciliation at King’s for the 2024 Winter term. This groundbreaking appointment emphasizes King’s commitment to understanding, dialogue, and healing in the pursuit of justice and reconciliation.
A Unique Opportunity for Research Collaboration
Dr. Stanciu expresses her excitement at the opportunity to work with the faculty, students, and local Indigenous community members at King’s. She plans to share her current work on Indigenous Education and the Literature of the Boarding Schools in the U.S. and Canada, and hopes to engage in research collaborations and dialogue with the Indigenous and First Nations Studies community.
Dr. Stanciu’s Objectives
In her role as the Fulbright Research Chair, Dr. Stanciu aims to explore the concepts of justice and reconciliation, with a specific focus on the role of religion and religious institutions in truth and reconciliation processes, especially in the context of colonialism and racism in the Americas or globally.
A Step Towards Truth and Reconciliation
Dr. Robert Ventresca, Interim Vice President and Academic Dean at King’s, emphasizes the university’s commitment to truth and reconciliation, especially considering the historical role of Catholic educational institutions in perpetuating colonial racism and violence. The decision to dedicate the first ever Fulbright Canada Research Chair to the theme of Justice and Reconciliation reflects King’s sincere commitment to understanding and healing.
Acknowledging the Important Role of Research Facilitators
Dr. Ventresca acknowledges the instrumental role played by King’s Research Facilitators, Ramanpreet Kaur and Rodney Parker, in making this significant initiative possible. Their efforts were critical in articulating the thematic focus of the Research Chair and coordinating essential logistics.
Dr. Stanciu’s Expertise and Contributions
Dr. Stanciu, an immigrant scholar of Indigenous and Multiethnic Literatures of the United States, brings a wealth of scholarly and teaching expertise in Native American and Indigenous Studies, Progressive Era literature, and critical theory. Her extensive contributions in the form of books, journal special issues, and peer-reviewed articles illuminate the histories of Indigenous and immigrant literatures and offer new ways to read across multiple fields.
Impactful Collaboration with the King’s Community
The Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Decolonization office at King’s expresses enthusiasm about the prospect of working with Dr. Stanciu. They believe that the ground-breaking work being undertaken will help preserve the true histories of Indigenous communities and prevent the repeat of past atrocities.
Welcome to Dr. Stanciu
The King’s community is eager to welcome Dr. Stanciu and collaborate on this significant endeavor. As the first Fulbright Canada Research Chair in Justice and Reconciliation, Dr. Stanciu’s work is expected to leave a lasting impact on the understanding and promotion of justice and reconciliation in society.
In conclusion, Dr. Cristina Stanciu’s appointment as the first Fulbright Canada Research Chair in Justice and Reconciliation at King’s is a significant step towards understanding and healing with regard to colonialism, racism, and historical injustices. Her expertise and dedication to this important cause will undoubtedly pave the way for impactful research collaborations and dialogue, contributing to a more just and reconciled society.”
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