The apology offered by Pope Francis to Indigenous people on July 25th was an important first step in reconciliation. We understand that our Indigenous colleagues and friends will be taking the time needed to reflect upon this apology, and what it means to their own personal healing. We are also mindful that this apology is not addressed to us. CAM supports our NACM friends and colleagues at this time and in all ways in which we are called upon.
We were disappointed that a call for the dissolution of the Doctrine of Discovery, which has been the foundation for colonization of countless Indigenous nations, was not included. This declaration has been condemned within the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). We hope that moving forward this call will include a commitment to ongoing relationship righting and recompense.
