Be It Resolved: Anabaptists and Partner Coalitions Advocate for Indigenous Justice

Winner of the 2021 Manitoba Day Awards

For over half a century, Anabaptists in Canada have spoken out collectively in support of Indigenous struggles for justice, dignity, and human rights. Through public statements, conference resolutions, parliamentary submissions, and pointed calls to action, Anabaptist bodies—and their ecumenical partners—have expressed a deep and heartfelt response to the Creator’s call to “make things right” between Indigenous and Settler peoples.

This anthology brings together over 90 documents that trace the history of Anabaptist commitments to Indigenous justice and decolonization since the mid-1960s. While not exhaustive, this rich collection represents some of the ways Anabaptists have addressed concerns such as Indigenous land rights; access to water, education and housing; missing and murdered women and girls; the legacy of residential schools; restorative responses to crime; self-determination and sovereignty; and reconciliation.

Sometimes prophetic, at other times reflecting a colonial mindset, the documents gathered into Be It Resolved demand a response from white Settler Anabaptists. Will we live up to the promises made to Indigenous peoples in the past? Will we listen carefully, taking the lead from Indigenous sisters and brothers? Will we humbly admit and repent where racism and colonialism continue to live within us? Will we put words into action for justice and right relations?

Study Guide included.