Holy See Emphasizes Dignity of Indigenous Peoples at OAS
On Tuesday, 20 October, Monsignor Juan Antonio Cruz Serrano, the Permanent Observer to the Organization of American States (OAS), addressed an extraordinary session of the OAS's Permanent Council dedicated to the theme:…
On Tuesday, 20 October, Monsignor Juan Antonio Cruz Serrano, the Permanent Observer to the Organization of American States (OAS), addressed an extraordinary session of the OAS's Permanent Council dedicated to the theme: "The Encounter of Two Worlds." In his remarks, he highlighted the dual nature of the encounter between Europe and the indigenous peoples of the Americas, reflecting on both the progress achieved and the injustices suffered during this historical interaction.
Monsignor Serrano noted that the arrival of Europeans opened new horizons of knowledge, cultural exchange, and mutual enrichment. However, he also acknowledged that this encounter was marked by significant suffering and injustices inflicted upon indigenous peoples, whose dignity and cultures were not always respected. He emphasized that acknowledging these lights and shadows should not condemn people to be prisoners of the past; instead, he urged that this reflection guide efforts toward building a different future.
Diving deeper into the essence of this event, Serrano cited Pope Leo XIV, reinforcing that dialogue and encounter allow us to understand other ways of perceiving the world and appreciate the unique and original qualities inherent in every culture. He articulated a vision for the future that involves actively fostering meaningful connections that respect cultural diversity.
He pointed to Our Lady of Guadalupe as a pivotal symbol of this encounter, particularly as the 500th anniversary of her apparitions approaches. In this context, he described her image as a source of unity and a reminder of the historical meeting between two worlds.
Monsignor Serrano continued by discussing the complexities of today's interconnected world, where technological advancements have not always led to deeper human relationships. He referenced Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical, "Magnifica humanitas," which advocates for transforming diversity into a resource through mutual listening and dialogue—conditions he believes are crucial for the flourishing of justice and fraternity.
Concluding his address, he expressed the need to work toward a new encounter among the peoples of the Americas, one that recognizes the dignity of every individual and prioritizes the protection of the most vulnerable. Drawn from the inspiration of historical figures such as Saint Peter Claver and the Dominicans Bartolomé de las Casas and Francisco de Vitoria, Serrano emphasized the importance of true encounters that go beyond merely bringing people together; they involve recognizing and defending the dignity of the other.
