An Introduction to Earth Jurisprudence and the Role of the Sacred in Farming

ORFC Global 2021 Session

Across Africa, a network of Earth Jurisprudence Practitioners is accompanying traditional and indigenous communities in the revival and enhancement of their Earth-centred customary governance systems. African Earth Jurisprudence Practitioners from West and Southern Africa will share the philosophy and practice of Earth Jurisprudence and the work that Earth Jurisprudence has inspired on the continent: stories of accompanying rural communities in the revival of their seed and food sovereignty and traditional knowledge and practices, the restoration of their sacred natural sites and associated rituals, and the strengthening of their ecological governance systems derived from the laws of the Earth.  

These civil-society-led initiatives to re-establish Earth-centred governance on the continent are founded on Africa’s rich indigenous legal traditions and cultural heritage and inspired by Earth Jurisprudence – a legal philosophy and ethical framework conceived of by eco-theologian Thomas Berry in the late twentieth century. Through the lens of community stories and Earth Jurisprudence, panellists will explore the role of the sacred in farming and how the revival of traditional farming practices and indigenous seeds can strengthen a sacred human-Earth relationship.

Speakers:
Appolinaire Oussou Lio
Gertrude Pswarayi-Jabson
Method Gundidza

Chair:
Liz Hosken

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