The 9th Annual Hasekura International Symposium

The 9th Annual Hasekura International Symposium will be focused on the metaphors and concepts of possession and dispossession. While we speak of various kinds of “possession”—spirit possession, drug possession, weapons possession—“dispossession” is used mostly in terms of property, and especially land under colonialism. The term also evokes the difference between possession and ownership.

But what is it to “possess” anything? Do we possess skills or knowledge, or do they possess us? How does possession(s) manifest? Who are the dispossessed and what is the difference between franchise and inalienable rights?

This symposium invites the consideration of such topics and related concerns, in an interdisciplinary environment. We invite scholars in all fields of the humanities (including religious studies, literary studies, and history), and social sciences (including anthropology, sociology, and environmental studies) to join us and present their research and insights.

Open to the public. No registration required to attend.