What's Happening?
Yenny Delgado, an Abya Yala theologian and psychologist, is scheduled to deliver a virtual lecture titled “Women Theologians from Abya Yala” on Tuesday, December 1, at 6:30 PM via Zoom. This event, hosted by the Ada Maria Isasi-Diaz Justice Institute,
will focus on how women across Abya Yala are influencing perspectives on faith, God, and justice. Delgado will trace the collaborative efforts of women theologians, the issues they address—ranging from violence and migration to ancestral wisdom—and how their voices are transforming contemporary theology. The lecture is free to attend, and registration is required to access the Zoom discussion. Delgado is also the Director of Publica Theology, a digital platform that supports women theologians in reflecting on daily life from a global periphery, and the founder of the Political Theology and Spiritualities Network, which connects theologians from 22 countries.
Why It's Important?
This lecture is significant as it highlights the growing influence and contributions of women theologians from Abya Yala, an Indigenous term referring to the Americas. By focusing on their perspectives, the event challenges traditional theological narratives and promotes a more inclusive understanding of faith and justice. The discussion of issues like violence, migration, and ancestral wisdom underscores the practical and culturally relevant dimensions of their theological work. For U.S. audiences, particularly those interested in religious studies, social justice, and decolonial thought, this lecture offers an opportunity to engage with diverse theological viewpoints that may differ from Western-centric approaches. It also emphasizes the importance of amplifying marginalized voices in academic and spiritual discourse, potentially influencing future theological education and interfaith dialogues within the U.S.
What's Next?
Following the virtual lecture, attendees may gain a deeper understanding of Abya Yala theology and its implications for contemporary issues. The event could foster further discussions and collaborations among theologians, academics, and social justice advocates in the U.S. and beyond. Yenny Delgado's ongoing work with Publica Theology and the Political Theology and Spiritualities Network suggests continued efforts to empower women theologians and promote decolonial education. This lecture serves as a platform to introduce these concepts to a broader audience, potentially inspiring new research, educational initiatives, and advocacy efforts related to women's roles in theology and social change. The virtual format ensures accessibility, allowing a wide range of participants to engage with these critical discussions.
Beyond the Headlines
The lecture delves into the ethical and cultural dimensions of theology by exploring how women from Abya Yala are reinterpreting religious concepts through the lens of their lived experiences, including violence and migration. The use of the term 'Abya Yala' itself is a powerful statement, rejecting colonial nomenclature and asserting an Indigenous identity for the continent. This choice reflects a broader movement towards decolonization in academic and spiritual spheres, challenging established power structures and knowledge systems. By emphasizing ancestral wisdom, the lecture also touches upon the importance of indigenous knowledge systems and their potential to enrich contemporary theological thought. This event contributes to a long-term shift in theological discourse, moving towards greater inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and a recognition of diverse spiritual paths.
