17.2 Religious Influence on Social Movements

Liberation theology is a religious movement that emphasizes the role of faith in addressing social, economic, and political injustices, particularly in Latin America. It connects Christian teachings with the struggle for the oppressed, advocating for social change and liberation from systemic inequalities, often challenging existing power structures within government and society.

Social Justice: The concept that all individuals deserve equal rights and opportunities within society, promoting fairness and equity in social, economic, and political realms.

Preferential Option for the Poor: A principle within liberation theology that prioritizes the needs and rights of the poor and marginalized in society when making decisions and policies.

Base Ecclesial Communities: Small groups formed within the Catholic Church to foster community engagement and social action, often central to the practice of liberation theology.

The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal social movement in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s aimed at ending racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans. This movement was marked by various forms of activism, including protests, legal challenges, and grassroots organizing, with significant involvement from religious groups that sought to promote justice and equality.

Martin Luther King Jr.: A prominent leader of the Civil Rights Movement known for his philosophy of nonviolent resistance and his role in key events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington.

NAACP: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, an organization founded in 1909 that played a crucial role in fighting for civil rights through legal challenges and advocacy.

Sit-in: A form of nonviolent protest where individuals occupy a space, often a segregated lunch counter or public area, refusing to leave until their demands are met.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent African American civil rights leader who advocated for nonviolent resistance and equality during the 1950s and 1960s in the United States. His work was deeply rooted in his Christian faith, which influenced his vision for social justice and inspired a generation of activists to join the struggle for civil rights, making him a pivotal figure in social movements that sought to end racial segregation and discrimination.

Civil Rights Movement: A social movement aimed at ending racial discrimination and promoting equal rights for African Americans, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s.

Nonviolent Resistance: A method of protest and social change that seeks to achieve goals without the use of violence, famously championed by King as a strategy against oppression.

Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC): An organization founded by King and other civil rights leaders to coordinate nonviolent protests and advance civil rights across the southern United States.

The Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) is an African American civil rights organization founded in 1957, led primarily by Martin Luther King Jr. and other prominent leaders. It was formed to harness the moral authority of the church in the fight against racial segregation and discrimination, focusing on nonviolent protest and civil disobedience as means to achieve social change.

Civil Rights Movement: A social movement in the United States aimed at ending racial discrimination and securing equal rights for African Americans during the 1950s and 1960s.

Nonviolent Resistance: A method of protest that advocates for social change without the use of violence, famously championed by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.

SCLC's Campaigns: A series of organized actions and initiatives led by the SCLC, including notable events like the Birmingham Campaign and the Selma to Montgomery marches.

Gustavo Gutiérrez is a Peruvian theologian and Dominican priest, best known as the founder of Liberation Theology, which emphasizes the role of faith in addressing social injustice and poverty. His work connects Christian teachings with the struggles of marginalized communities, advocating for social change as a central aspect of religious practice.

Liberation Theology: A movement within Christian theology that emphasizes social justice, advocating for the poor and oppressed through an interpretation of the Bible that prioritizes their needs.

Base Ecclesial Communities: Small, local groups within the church that focus on community organizing and social action, often inspired by Liberation Theology to address local issues of injustice.

Preferential Option for the Poor: A principle in Catholic social teaching that prioritizes the needs of the poor and vulnerable in society, reflecting God's special concern for them.

Leonardo Boff is a Brazilian theologian and philosopher known for his influential role in the liberation theology movement, which emphasizes social justice and the preferential option for the poor within a Christian framework. His work connects spirituality with activism, advocating for the rights of marginalized groups and critiquing social inequality and oppression.

Liberation Theology: A movement within Christian theology that seeks to address social injustices and empower the poor, often through a critical engagement with political and economic structures.

Preferential Option for the Poor: A principle in Catholic social teaching that emphasizes the moral obligation to prioritize the needs of the poor and vulnerable in society.

Social Justice: The concept of fair and just relations between individuals and society, focusing on issues such as equality, human rights, and access to resources.

The sanctuary movement refers to a religious and social initiative that began in the 1980s, primarily in the United States, aiming to protect and support undocumented immigrants fleeing violence and persecution, particularly from Central America. This movement mobilized various religious congregations and organizations to provide shelter, food, legal assistance, and advocacy for these individuals, often in defiance of federal immigration laws. The sanctuary movement highlights the intersection of faith and activism as communities sought to respond compassionately to the plight of vulnerable populations.

sanctuary cities: Municipalities that adopt policies to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, thereby providing a safer environment for undocumented immigrants.

refugee crisis: A situation where a large number of people are forced to flee their home countries due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters, seeking safety in other nations.

social justice: The concept of ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, often through activism and advocacy for marginalized communities.

The religious coalition for reproductive choice is an alliance of various faith-based organizations and individuals advocating for reproductive rights, particularly the right to access safe and legal abortion services. This coalition seeks to challenge the perception that religious beliefs inherently oppose reproductive rights, emphasizing instead that many religious traditions support women's autonomy in reproductive decisions.

Pro-choice movement: A social and political movement that advocates for the legal right of individuals to choose whether to continue or terminate a pregnancy.

Reproductive rights: Legal rights and freedoms relating to reproduction and reproductive health, including access to contraception, safe abortion, and comprehensive sex education.

Faith-based advocacy: The efforts by religious groups to influence public policy and social norms based on their faith perspectives, often addressing issues such as social justice, health care, and reproductive rights.

Catholic Social Teaching refers to the body of doctrine developed by the Catholic Church that addresses social, economic, and political issues in light of the Gospel and the Church's mission. It emphasizes human dignity, the common good, and the importance of solidarity among people. This teaching has significantly influenced various social movements throughout history by providing moral guidance and advocating for justice and peace in society.

Common Good: The sum of social conditions that allow people to reach their full potential and realize their human dignity.

Solidarity: A principle that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all people and calls for a commitment to the welfare of others, particularly the marginalized.

Dignity of the Human Person: The belief that every human being possesses inherent worth and deserves respect and protection from conception to natural death.

Tikkun olam is a Hebrew phrase that translates to 'repairing the world' and refers to the Jewish concept of taking action to improve society and promote social justice. This principle emphasizes the moral responsibility of individuals to engage in charitable acts and contribute to the welfare of others, connecting deeply with various aspects of Jewish life, including beliefs, rituals, and social activism.

Gemilut Chasadim: Acts of loving-kindness that embody the ethical principle of providing help and support to those in need.

Mitzvah: A commandment or good deed performed in accordance with Jewish law, often related to social justice and community support.

Tzedakah: Charitable giving or social justice in Judaism, emphasizing the obligation to give to those less fortunate.

Desmond Tutu is a South African Anglican bishop and social rights activist known for his work in the anti-apartheid movement and his role in promoting peace and reconciliation in post-apartheid South Africa. Tutu's commitment to social justice and human rights made him a pivotal figure in religious influence on social movements, inspiring many around the world to engage in nonviolent activism.

Apartheid: A system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination that existed in South Africa from 1948 until the early 1990s.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission: A commission established in South Africa after apartheid to help heal the country by uncovering the truth about human rights violations during that era.

Ubuntu: A Nguni Bantu term meaning 'humanity to others,' often associated with Tutu's philosophy that emphasizes interconnectedness and communal responsibility.

The Dalai Lama is the title given to the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, believed to be an incarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion. This figure serves as a key religious and political leader for Tibetans, representing not only a significant figure in Vajrayana Buddhism but also an important voice in contemporary ethical discussions and social movements focused on human rights and peace.

Tenzin Gyatso: The 14th Dalai Lama, who has held the title since 1940 and is known for his teachings on compassion, nonviolence, and interfaith dialogue.

Bodhisattva: In Mahayana Buddhism, a Bodhisattva is an enlightened being who delays their own nirvana to help others achieve enlightenment.

Vajrayana Buddhism: A major branch of Tibetan Buddhism that incorporates esoteric practices, rituals, and beliefs aimed at achieving enlightenment through direct experience.

The Christian Right refers to a conservative political movement in the United States that seeks to promote and implement policies based on Christian values and beliefs. This movement emerged in the late 20th century, primarily driven by evangelical Christians and fundamentalists who believe that their faith should influence political decisions, particularly in areas like education, family values, and social issues.

Evangelicalism: A movement within Protestant Christianity that emphasizes the authority of the Bible, personal conversion experiences, and the necessity of sharing the Christian faith.

Fundamentalism: A form of religious conservatism that advocates for a strict interpretation of sacred texts and resists modern secular influences.

Religious Right: A broader term often used interchangeably with the Christian Right, encompassing various religious groups that engage in political activism to promote socially conservative policies.

Islamist political parties are organizations that seek to implement Islamic principles and law within the political framework of a state. These parties often blend religious beliefs with political ideologies, advocating for governance based on Islamic values, social justice, and moral conduct, while varying in their approaches to democracy and modernity.

Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, guiding all aspects of a Muslim's life, including legal, social, and political matters.

Muslim Brotherhood: A transnational Islamic organization founded in Egypt in 1928, which has influenced various Islamist movements and political parties across the Arab world and beyond.

Political Islam: A term used to describe various political movements and ideologies that aim to establish governance based on Islamic principles and integrate religion into the political sphere.

An interfaith alliance is a collaborative partnership among individuals and organizations from different religious traditions, working together to promote understanding, respect, and cooperation in addressing social issues and conflicts. These alliances often aim to bridge divides between religions and foster peace by highlighting shared values and common goals, especially in contexts where religion can both divide and unite communities.

Ecumenism: The movement aimed at promoting unity among Christian denominations and fostering better relationships among different faiths.

Dialogue: A process of open communication between individuals or groups from different religious backgrounds aimed at fostering mutual understanding.

Social Justice: The pursuit of a fair and just society by addressing issues such as poverty, discrimination, and inequality, often supported by various faith-based organizations.

The Parliament of the World's Religions is a global interfaith organization that aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among various religious traditions to address global issues. Founded in 1893, it serves as a platform for representatives from different faiths to come together, share perspectives, and work towards peace and social justice. This gathering emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting diverse religious beliefs in the context of conflict resolution and social movements.

Interfaith Dialogue: A process where individuals or groups from different religious backgrounds engage in conversation to promote mutual understanding and respect.

Social Justice: The view that everyone deserves equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities, often championed by various religious groups.

Global Citizenship: The idea that individuals belong to a worldwide community and are responsible for promoting justice and sustainability across national borders.

Religious pacifism is the belief that any form of violence or warfare is unjustifiable and that conflicts should be resolved through nonviolent means. This perspective often stems from moral, ethical, or spiritual convictions found in various religious traditions, emphasizing compassion, forgiveness, and reconciliation over aggression. Religious pacifists advocate for social change through peaceful protests, civil disobedience, and dialogue rather than through violent resistance.

Nonviolent resistance: A method of protest or opposition that does not involve physical violence but instead utilizes peaceful tactics such as marches, sit-ins, and boycotts.

Just War Theory: A doctrine of military ethics that outlines the conditions under which engaging in war can be morally justifiable, contrasting with the principles of pacifism.

Social justice: The pursuit of a society in which all individuals have equal rights and opportunities, often linked to movements advocating for systemic change without resorting to violence.

Quakers, also known as the Religious Society of Friends, are a Christian denomination that emphasizes direct personal experience of God and living out one's faith through simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality. Their beliefs and practices have played a vital role in various social movements, advocating for issues such as abolition, women's rights, and peace efforts.

Inner Light: A Quaker belief that every individual has a divine presence within them, guiding their actions and decisions.

Testimonies: Core principles of Quaker faith and practice, including simplicity, peace, integrity, community, and equality.

Abolition Movement: A social and political push to end slavery, in which Quakers played a significant role by advocating for the rights of enslaved people and working toward their emancipation.

Mennonites are a Christian group that emerged from the Anabaptist movement in the 16th century, known for their commitment to pacifism, community living, and simplicity in lifestyle. They emphasize adult baptism, non-violence, and living out their faith through service and social justice, making them significant contributors to various social movements focused on peace and humanitarian aid.

Anabaptism: A Christian movement that advocates for believers' baptism and a separation from state influence in religious matters, which significantly influenced the formation of Mennonite beliefs.

Pacifism: The belief that violence is unjustifiable under any circumstances, which is a core principle for Mennonites and shapes their approach to social issues and conflict.

Social Justice: The concept of fair and just relations between individuals and society, promoting equal rights and opportunities, a principle that Mennonites actively engage with through various social movements.

Buddhist peace activists are individuals or groups within the Buddhist tradition who advocate for social justice, nonviolence, and peace through Buddhist teachings and principles. They work to promote harmony in society by addressing issues like war, poverty, and environmental destruction, demonstrating how Buddhist philosophy can contribute to peaceful social change.

Engaged Buddhism: A movement within Buddhism that emphasizes applying Buddhist teachings to social, political, and environmental issues, advocating for active involvement in social justice.

Ahimsa: A key principle in Buddhism that promotes nonviolence and compassion towards all living beings, serving as a foundational concept for peace activism.

Sangha: The community of monks, nuns, and laypeople in Buddhism, which plays a vital role in supporting peace initiatives and promoting collective action for social change.

The Corrymeela Community is a Northern Irish organization founded in 1965 that focuses on reconciliation and peacebuilding among divided communities, particularly in the context of the sectarian conflict known as 'The Troubles.' It emphasizes inclusivity, dialogue, and shared experiences to foster understanding and healing among people of different backgrounds and beliefs.

The Troubles: A violent conflict in Northern Ireland from the late 1960s to 1998, primarily involving nationalist/republican and unionist/loyalist groups, leading to significant political and social upheaval.

Reconciliation: The process of restoring friendly relations and addressing grievances among conflicting parties, often involving forgiveness, understanding, and collaboration.

Peacebuilding: The actions taken to establish lasting peace and prevent the recurrence of conflict by addressing root causes, fostering relationships, and promoting social justice.

An interfaith mediation centre is an organization designed to facilitate dialogue and understanding among different religious groups, aiming to resolve conflicts and promote peace. These centers often serve as neutral grounds where representatives of various faiths can come together to discuss their differences, collaborate on social issues, and engage in conflict resolution efforts, reflecting the idea that diverse religious perspectives can contribute to harmonious coexistence.

Dialogue: A process of communication between individuals or groups from different backgrounds to foster understanding and address conflicts.

Conflict Resolution: A method of addressing disputes and disagreements through negotiation, mediation, or other peaceful means to achieve a satisfactory outcome for all parties involved.

Interfaith Cooperation: Collaborative efforts among various religious groups to work together on shared goals and social issues while respecting each other's beliefs.

Pope Francis is the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, elected in March 2013. He is known for his progressive views, focus on social justice, and emphasis on compassion and mercy in the context of contemporary global challenges. His leadership has sparked discussions about the role of the Catholic Church in addressing major ethical issues and influencing social movements around the world.

Vatican II: A significant ecumenical council held from 1962 to 1965 that addressed relations between the Catholic Church and the modern world, promoting reform and modernization within the Church.

Social Teaching of the Church: The body of doctrine developed by the Catholic Church on social, economic, and political issues that reflects its commitment to human dignity and justice.

Liberation Theology: A movement within the Catholic Church that emphasizes social justice and the liberation of oppressed peoples, often associated with a preference for the poor and critiques of socio-economic inequalities.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu is a South African Anglican bishop and social rights activist known for his work in the fight against apartheid. He played a crucial role in promoting nonviolent resistance and using moral authority to challenge injustice, making significant contributions to social movements through his religious beliefs and advocacy for human rights.

Apartheid: A system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the South African government from 1948 until the early 1990s.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission: A restorative justice body established in South Africa after the end of apartheid, aimed at addressing past human rights violations and fostering national healing.

Nonviolent Resistance: A method of protest that seeks to achieve social or political change without the use of violence, often employing strategies like civil disobedience and peaceful demonstrations.

The South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established in 1995 to help heal the nation and address the atrocities committed during apartheid. It aimed to uncover the truth about human rights violations, promote national unity, and facilitate reconciliation among the divided communities of South Africa. The TRC is a crucial example of how processes of truth-telling and acknowledgment can contribute to healing and peacebuilding in post-conflict societies.

Apartheid: A system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the South African government from 1948 to the early 1990s.

Restorative Justice: An approach to justice that focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior through inclusive processes that involve victims, offenders, and the community.

Nelson Mandela: The first black president of South Africa and a key figure in the anti-apartheid movement, whose leadership was instrumental in the establishment of the TRC.

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is an international humanitarian agency that provides assistance to impoverished and disadvantaged people in over 100 countries. Founded in 1943 by the U.S. Catholic Bishops, CRS embodies the Church's mission to help those in need, especially during global conflicts and crises, making it a vital player in peacemaking and social justice efforts.

Social Justice: A concept that advocates for the fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society, often rooted in religious beliefs and values.

Humanitarian Aid: Assistance provided for humanitarian purposes, typically in response to crises, aiming to save lives and alleviate suffering among affected populations.

Peacebuilding: Efforts aimed at establishing lasting peace in areas affected by conflict, which may include reconciliation processes and support for social cohesion.

Islamic Relief Worldwide is a global humanitarian organization that provides relief and development assistance to vulnerable communities regardless of race, religion, or nationality. Founded in 1984, it operates with a mission to alleviate suffering and promote sustainable development while adhering to Islamic principles of charity and compassion. The organization plays a significant role in addressing global conflicts and peacemaking through its aid programs and community engagement.

Zakat: A form of almsgiving treated in Islam as a tax, and one of the Five Pillars, which obliges Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to those in need.

Humanitarian Aid: Assistance provided for humanitarian purposes, typically in response to humanitarian crises, including natural disasters and conflicts.

NGO (Non-Governmental Organization): A non-profit organization that operates independently of government influence, often focused on social, political, or environmental issues.

World Vision is a global Christian humanitarian organization that aims to tackle poverty and injustice by promoting the well-being of children and their communities. It operates through various initiatives, including emergency relief, development programs, and advocacy efforts, rooted in the belief that faith can drive meaningful social change.

Christian Humanitarianism: A movement that combines Christian values with humanitarian efforts to improve living conditions and advocate for social justice globally.

Child Sponsorship: A program offered by World Vision where individuals can financially support a specific child, helping provide access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.

Social Justice: The concept of creating a fair society by challenging injustices and promoting equal rights and opportunities for all individuals.

Caritas Internationalis is a global confederation of Catholic charitable organizations that works to promote social justice, alleviate poverty, and provide humanitarian assistance around the world. Founded in 1951, it plays a crucial role in mobilizing resources and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, often influenced by the teachings of the Catholic Church and its commitment to social action.

Catholic Social Teaching: A body of doctrine developed by the Catholic Church on social, economic, and political issues, emphasizing the dignity of the human person and the importance of community.

NGO (Non-Governmental Organization): An organization that operates independently from government influence, typically focused on social issues, development, and humanitarian efforts.

Solidarity: A principle in Catholic teaching that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all people and the responsibility to support one another, especially those in need.

Islamic Relief is a global humanitarian organization that provides aid to those in need, regardless of their race, religion, or gender. Established in 1984, it operates on the principles of compassion and social justice, embodying the Islamic values of charity and service to humanity. The organization plays a significant role in mobilizing resources and support for various social movements, addressing issues such as poverty, disaster relief, and education in marginalized communities.

Zakat: A form of almsgiving treated in Islam as a tax, which is obligatory for all Muslims who meet the necessary criteria of wealth, aimed at redistributing wealth and providing for the less fortunate.

NGO (Non-Governmental Organization): An independent organization that is not part of the government and typically aims to address social issues through advocacy, outreach, and humanitarian efforts.

Social Justice: The concept of fair and just relations between individuals and society, including the distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.

Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building affordable housing for families in need, promoting homeownership as a means to break the cycle of poverty. The organization operates on principles of faith, community service, and social justice, often enlisting volunteers and future homeowners in the construction process to foster a sense of ownership and community involvement.

Affordable Housing: Housing that is deemed affordable to those with a median household income, allowing families to spend no more than 30% of their income on housing costs.

Volunteerism: The practice of offering time and services for free to help others, which is a core principle behind Habitat for Humanity's community-driven building efforts.

Social Justice: The concept of ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all individuals in society, particularly in addressing issues of poverty and housing inequality.

Catholic Charities is a network of social service organizations operated by the Catholic Church that provides various forms of assistance, such as food, housing, healthcare, and education, to those in need. This organization embodies the Church's commitment to social justice and charity, influencing social movements that advocate for the welfare of marginalized communities and promote systemic change through service and advocacy.

Social Justice: The pursuit of a society that provides equitable treatment and opportunities for all individuals, addressing issues like poverty, discrimination, and human rights.

Charitable Works: Acts of kindness and support aimed at helping those in need, often carried out by religious organizations, including providing food, shelter, and medical care.

Advocacy: The act of supporting or recommending a particular cause or policy, often aimed at influencing public opinion and policy changes for social justice.

The American Jewish World Service (AJWS) is a non-profit organization that supports development efforts and humanitarian aid in countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Rooted in Jewish values, AJWS aims to combat poverty and promote sustainable development, often mobilizing the Jewish community to engage in global social justice initiatives.

Tikkun Olam: A Hebrew phrase meaning 'repairing the world,' which reflects a Jewish responsibility to take action for social justice and improve the conditions of others.

Social Justice: A concept that advocates for equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society, emphasizing the importance of addressing systemic inequalities.

Global Citizenship: The recognition of belonging to a global community and understanding one's responsibility towards addressing global challenges like poverty and inequality.

The evangelical environmental network is a coalition of Christian groups and individuals who advocate for environmental stewardship based on biblical principles. This movement emphasizes the moral responsibility of believers to care for creation and address issues such as climate change, conservation, and sustainability, viewing environmental concerns as integral to their faith and mission.

Creation Care: A term used within Christianity to refer to the stewardship of the environment, emphasizing the importance of protecting God's creation.

Sustainable Development: A holistic approach to development that seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often supported by religious groups.

Social Justice: A principle advocating for the fair distribution of resources and opportunities, which often intersects with environmental issues within religious contexts.

The Islamic foundation for ecology and environmental sciences refers to the principles and teachings derived from Islamic texts and traditions that advocate for the protection of the environment and sustainable practices. This foundation emphasizes the interconnectedness of all creation, the moral responsibility of humans as stewards (khalifah) of the earth, and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

Sustainability: The practice of meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often aligned with environmental stewardship.

Shariah: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith that encompasses all aspects of a Muslim's life, including ethical guidance on environmental responsibility.

Eco-theology: A field of study that explores the theological implications of ecological issues, often integrating religious beliefs with environmental concerns.

Interfaith Power & Light is a national organization that mobilizes a religious response to climate change by engaging faith communities in environmental stewardship and advocacy. It connects various religious traditions and practices with the mission of promoting sustainability and caring for creation, emphasizing the moral imperative to address climate issues as a spiritual responsibility.

Environmental Justice: A social movement that seeks fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people in environmental policies, ensuring that marginalized communities are not disproportionately affected by environmental hazards.

Sustainable Development: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often integrating environmental, economic, and social considerations.

Faith-Based Activism: Activism that is inspired by religious beliefs and values, often focusing on social justice, environmental issues, or humanitarian efforts through a spiritual lens.

Green Muslims are a movement within the Islamic community that emphasizes environmental stewardship and sustainable practices as a form of religious duty. This group connects Islamic teachings and values with modern environmental concerns, advocating for ecological awareness and activism in response to climate change and ecological degradation.

Islamic Environmentalism: A movement that seeks to align Islamic principles with environmental conservation, promoting a sense of responsibility among Muslims for protecting the planet.

Eco-Islam: A concept that combines ecological awareness with Islamic teachings, encouraging Muslims to engage in sustainable practices as a reflection of their faith.

Sustainable Development: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often linked with ethical and moral considerations in various religious contexts.

Laudato Si' is an encyclical letter issued by Pope Francis in 2015 that addresses environmental issues and the moral responsibility of humanity to care for the planet. This document emphasizes the interconnectedness of all creation, calling for action against climate change and urging a shift towards sustainable practices. It has been influential in inspiring social movements focused on environmental justice and ecological responsibility.

Ecological Conversion: A transformation of heart, mind, and lifestyle that leads individuals and communities to recognize their responsibility towards the environment and act accordingly.

Social Justice: The concept that all people deserve equal economic, political, and social rights, which is often linked to environmental advocacy in the context of caring for the most vulnerable populations affected by ecological degradation.

Climate Change: A significant change in global temperatures and weather patterns over time, largely attributed to human activities, particularly fossil fuel consumption, which is a central concern in Laudato Si'.