Ecological Grief is not new, but on the Rise – How can we Deal with It? (Part 1)

Grieving the loss or change of a cherished natural space has not always been recognized as a true form of grieving. For example, the grief First Nations Peoples in USA and Canada experienced after losing their way of life in the wake of colonization, was generally not recognized as ecological grief. Wildfires and summers filled with smoke, devastating floods and subtle changes in the seasons seems to be the new normal and following recent IPCC reports, ecological grief is now starting to become recognized as a legitimate form of mourning and anxiety. But like all forms of grief, ecological grief is personal, unique and often does not follow a logical pattern. The speakers will argue that recognizing and working with ecological grief is an experience familiar to many, but is only now beginning to be understood. How to connect the dots is a work in progress with a multitude of nuances. Grieving a loss of natural space or build environment may or may not be similar to other forms of personal loss. Speakers: Amy Spark and Jodi Lammiman Amy Spark is an environmental scientist and advocate focused on the intersection between ecological and mental health. Her research in the Ghost River Valley highlighted patterns of ecological grief – the emotional experience after the loss of cherished natural spaces. She loves her work as the Sustainability Coordinator at Bow Valley College, where she collaborates on environmental solutions that also aid in social cohesion and well-being. She is an amateur urban homesteader, budding writer, and lover of all things X-files. You will usually find her happily exploring Calgary by bike or digging into a good book. Jodi Lammiman is a lover of life, beauty, art, stimulating conversation and wilderness spaces. With a formal education in Sacred Literature, Leadership and Spiritual Direction, Jodi became interested in the intersections between social and environmental justice, spirituality and the human psyche. She lived and worked in an intentional retreat community for four years where she was immersed in the practices of hospitality, active listening and contemplative living. She is a spiritual director, retreats facilitator, and an avid reader. Moderator: Kristina Larkin Date: Thursday, November 22, 2018 Time: Doors open 11:30 am, Presentation 12 noon, buffet lunch 12:30 pm, Q&A 1 – 1:30 pm Location: Royal Canadian Legion (north door) 324 Mayor Magrath Dr. S. Lethbridge Cost: $14 buffet lunch with dessert/coffee/tea/juice or $2 coffee/tea/juice. RSVP not required