The Vatican formally renounces the Doctrine of Discovery in support of Indigenous rights

On Thursday, March 30, 2023, the Vatican issued a statement repudiating the Doctrine of Discovery, a deeply problematic and racist framework used to justify Europe's colonial '‘discovery’' of the ‘'New World.’'

The Vatican's statement renounces the mindset of cultural or racial superiority. It strongly condemns any attitudes or actions that threaten or damage the dignity of the human person.

One Earth wishes to acknowledge all the people who*, for decades, called on the Vatican to renounce the Doctrine of Discovery.

Through a series of Papal Bulls, or edicts,  issued in 1095, 1454, and 1493, this doctrine granted dominion over terra nullius (empty lands) through the right to invade ‘infidel’ territories and perpetually subjugate ‘soulless’ people.

The doctrine instructed invaders to eliminate knowledge holders, religious and spiritual authorities, and all practices related to the harmonious connection with nature. It forced the sense of separation of human beings from nature and instilled the notion of dominion over the Earth. It also laid the legal ground to ensure that Indigenous peoples would not be subjects of rights vis a vis nation-states.

We uphold all Indigenous spiritual authorities who, from a place of dignity, called for the Vatican to accept that times have changed. It is the time for Original Peoples and Nations to be respected and treated rightfully before the law. At One Earth, we are partnering with Indigenous-led organizations to ensure that they can thrive and, at the same time, help humanity restore their connection and love for the Earth.

We are all in the same canoe and must row as one to achieve a livable future for the next seven generations.

The dawn is finally coming!

*We want to especially acknowledge Steve Newcomb (author of The Doctrine of Discovery: Unmasking the Domination Code) and Mindahi Bastida Muñoz, Representative of The Grand Council of the Eagle and the Condor, for their personal and direct request to Pope Francis to rescind the Papal Bulls.