Kathy M'Closkey

Dr. Kathy M'Closkey is an Adjunct Associate Professor in Sociology and Criminology at the University of Windsor. She holds a PhD in Anthropology from York University and researches globalization's impact on Navajo weaving traditions, cultural property rights, and gendered injustice. Her work examines how trade policies and appropriation affect Indigenous artisans, funded by multiple SSHRC grants.

Research explores:

• Political economy of collectibles
• Intellectual/cultural property rights
• Gender implications of craft production
• Navajo weaving historiography

Publications analyze textile commodification through monographs and chapters, with recent work focusing on design appropriation and UN Indigenous rights declarations. Research employs ethnographic methods and archival analysis to document weaving's cultural significance.

Awards include:

• 2018 Excellence in Dinè Studies (Dinè College)
• 2018 Human Rights and Social Justice Award (UWindsor)

Consultancy roles include advising the Indian Arts and Crafts Board on authentic Navajo textiles. Extensive curatorial experience includes exhibitions like 'First Nations/Fine Weavers' touring internationally.