Themes of Catholic
Social Teaching

Life & Dignitiy of the Human Person

The Life and Dignity of the Human Person are closely related to indigenous communities. Indigenous communities have unique cultures, traditions, and ways of life that deserve respect and recognition. The Catholic Social Teaching principle of the life and dignity of the human person emphasizes that every individual, regardless of their background, possesses inherent dignity and worth. This principle calls us to acknowledge and honor the rights and well-being of indigenous peoples. It means recognizing their right to self-determination, land, and resources and preserving and respecting their cultural heritage. It also means addressing historical injustices and working towards reconciliation and healing.


"The world exists for everyone, because all of us were born with the same dignity. Differences of color, religion, talent, place of birth or residence, and so many others, cannot be used to justify the privileges of some over the rights of all."  (Pope Francis, On Fraternity and Social Friendship [Fratelli Tutti], no. 118)





Pope Francis mentions, "Just as the commandment 'Thou shalt not kill' sets a clear limit to safeguard the value of human life, today we also have to say 'thou shalt not' to an economy of exclusion and inequality.  He calls for a society that values and protects the lives of indigenous women, ensuring their safety, dignity, and economic well-being

Solidarity

In indigenous communities, solidarity means standing with them, advocating for their rights, and working towards addressing the injustices they face. It means recognizing their struggles and joining forces to bring about positive change. Standing in solidarity with indigenous people involves listening to their voices, respecting their cultures and traditions, and supporting their efforts to preserve their land, resources, and way of life. It also means addressing the historical and ongoing injustices they have experienced, such as land dispossession, discrimination, and violence. 


"The solidarity which binds all men together as members of a common family makes it impossible for wealthy nations to look with indifference upon the hunger, misery, and poverty of other nations whose citizens are unable to enjoy even elementary human rights." (St. John XXIII, On Christianity and SocialProgress [Mater et Magistra], no. 157)

We are all called to acknowledge and respect the rights to their territories and to work towards addressing historical and ongoing land injustices.
Solidarity calls us to recognize every individual's inherent dignity and worth, regardless of their background or circumstances.