THE DECOLONIAL POLITICS OF MYTH

Analyzing the theoretical work of Silvia Rivera Cusicanqui in conversation with collective memory studies, I explore the robust theory and praxis of subaltern decolonial mythologies. The goal of this essay is double-pronged: First, I decouple myth from its frequent association with reactionary and fascist politics by showing how myth has mobilized popular decolonial movements. Second, I demonstrate how myth as a category used by Indigenous intellectuals serves decolonial ends, although these ends are a contested site of their own.