The Last Objectors on Absolutely Manitoba
Over 11K Mennonites, Quakers, Hutterites and others across Canada refused to take up arms in WWII
The Last Objectors
Aug. 26, 2017
7 p.m. on CBC TV in Manitoba
Candid conversations with men with a unique take on history — WWII conscientious objectors who refused to take up arms on the grounds of their faith.
More than 11,000 Mennonites, Quakers, Hutterites and other pacifists across Canada refused to take up arms during the Second World War on the grounds of their faith.
The Last Objectors tells their story through intimate interviews, as well as existing photographs and footage.
Many conscientious objectors were sent to Alternative Service — often brutal, demanding and at times dangerous work in mines, forestry, on farms and factories. Some would also work in the medical field, some as military medics at the front, or staffing Canadian mental hospitals.
Their story offers insight into timely questions around the conflict between personal convictions and civic duty, and how we address human rights in the context of war.
Produced by Refuge 31 Films.
- Watch the full documentary here.
- Watch more made-in-Manitoba films on Absolutely Manitoba.