Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA, has co-signed with other heads of churches from Churches Beyond Borders a letter on the legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery. In addition to the ELCA, Churches Beyond Borders includes the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, Anglican Church of Canada and the Episcopal Church.
“As another school year commences, we are reminded that the educational systems we have handed down to our children often teach national narratives that perpetuate white supremacy by deleting and ignoring the histories and contributions of Indigenous People and other marginalized communities and peoples in both Canada and the United States,” the letter reads, in part. “The ongoing legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery and the sinful acts of racism in North America are rarely if ever taught in our school systems or churches with the fullness and import that is necessary and just.”
“As a sign of our cross-border commitments to the work toward truth, healing, justice and accurate education, we invite all members of our churches to commemorate September 30, 2021 as a day for truth and healing,” the letter continued. “We encourage you to learn about residential and boarding schools, honor survivors, and remember those who never made it home from the schools. On September 30, we invite you to wear orange as a sign of remembering, solidarity, and commitment to seeking healing. You may also choose to wear orange to Sunday worship on September 26.”
