Glossary

Algonquin Territory Unceded, unsurrendered land traditionally inhabited by the Algonquin people. This land is recognized for its historical and ongoing significance to the Algonquin community.

Anishnaabe A group of Indigenous peoples in Canada and the United States, including the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi nations, who share cultural and linguistic ties.

Climate Anxiety A term describing the distress or worry caused by the awareness of climate change and its potential impacts on the planet and future generations.

Ecological Reciprocity: refers to the concept of mutual exchange and balance between humans and nature. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of species and their environments, where humans acknowledge their dependence on natural ecosystems for survival and well-being. This principle encourages sustainable practices that ensure resources are available for future generation

Environmental Reciprocity The practice of engaging in a mutually beneficial relationship with the environment, acknowledging the interconnectedness and interdependence of all life forms.

Etuaptmumk (Two-Eyed Seeing) A concept championed by Dr. Elder Albert Marshall, emphasizing the importance of integrating both Indigenous and Western knowledge systems to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Principles focused on ensuring fair treatment, representation, and meaningful participation of all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.

Land Acknowledgement A formal statement recognizing the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples and expressing gratitude and respect for the land. A commitment to action and reconciliation in addition to an ongoing relationship with the land.

Laudato Si’, subtitled “Care for Our Common Home,” is an encyclical letter that emphasizes the interconnectedness of God, humans, and Earth, urging respect and honor for our planet. The encyclical is divided into six chapters:

1. What is Happening to Our Common Home: Discusses environmental issues like pollution, climate change, and global inequality.

2. The Gospel of Creation: Interprets Genesis as a call for responsible stewardship of nature, viewing it as a shared gift.

3. The Human Roots of the Ecological Crisis: Examines social trends and ideologies contributing to environmental problems, such as technology misuse.

4. Integral Ecology: Proposes solutions that consider interactions within natural and social systems, including ethical and spiritual dimensions.

5. Lines of Approach and Action: Advocates for international environmental agreements and inclusive decision-making.

6. Ecological Education and Spirituality: Encourages personal ecological conversion through prayer, learning, and reduced consumerism.

Simple actions, like giving thanks at meals, can remind us of our relationship with God, nature, and others. More information: OECTA Common Home, Laudato Si’ Movement, and Laudato Si’ Week (May). 

Nature-Deficiency Disorder A term used to describe the negative physical and mental health consequences resulting from a lack of interaction with nature.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) An educational approach that focuses on developing students' social and emotional skills, such as self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

Sustainability Practices that meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Systemic Inequities Institutionalized practices or policies that create and perpetuate unequal opportunities and outcomes for different groups of people.

TEK (Traditional Ecological Knowledge) Indigenous knowledge systems that encompass the relationships between living beings, including humans, and their environment, passed down through generations.

TRC (Truth and Reconciliation Commission) A commission established to address the historical and ongoing impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous peoples in Canada and to promote reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.