Religiously decolonising settlers: Richard A. Davis, ‘The Christian ministry of reconciliation and settler decolonization in Aotearoa New Zealand’, in Pauline Kollontai, Sue Yore (eds), Religion in Diverse Societies: Crossing the Boundaries of Prejudice and Distrust, Routledge, 2024 | settler colonial studies blog

Religiously decolonising settlers: Richard A. Davis, ‘The Christian ministry of reconciliation and settler decolonization in Aotearoa New Zealand’, in Pauline Kollontai, Sue Yore (eds), Religion in Diverse Societies: Crossing the Boundaries of Prejudice and Distrust, Routledge, 2024

25Nov24

Abstract: In this chapter, Richard A. Davis, a Pakeha New Zealander, navigates the terrain of decolonization and reconciliation in the context of Aotearoa New Zealand’s settler colonialism. He examines the allure of reconciliation to Christians and the critical challenges it faces, particularly in resistance from indigenous communities. From the perspective of Decolonial Settler Theology, Davis identifies five boundaries between settlers and indigenous peoples that cannot be ignored in addressing settler colonialism. He advocates for a reconciliation grounded in corrective justice, repentance, and genuine transformation, cautioning against superficial gestures that perpetuate assimilationist agendas. This chapter offers valuable insights into the imperative of decolonial reconciliation and the potential role of Christians as leaders in this ongoing work in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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