Glossary.

The largest ethnonational group in the Horn of Africa, with a distinct language, governance tradition, and cultural identity.

The homeland of the Oromo people, spanning much of present-day Ethiopia.

The Oromo language, a Cushitic language spoken by tens of millions and written in the Qubee (Latin-based) script.

An indigenous democratic system organizing society into generational classes that rotate leadership every eight years.

The sacred sycamore tree beneath which the Gadaa assembly convenes; symbol of peace, deliberation, and justice.

Young men or youth, historically the community's guardians, and in modern times a name for a generational movement.

Young women, counterpart to Qeerroo within the generational cycle.

The elected leader of a Gadaa class during its eight-year term; a first-among-equals, not a monarch.

The general assembly that legislates and adjudicates under Gadaa; meets beneath the Odaa.

The Oromo ethical order, the moral balance between people, community, and the natural world.

The one supreme being in traditional Oromo belief; associated with the sky, order, and truth.

The Oromo thanksgiving festival held at the turn of the seasons; a gathering of gratitude for rain, harvest, and community.

A given name; also the artist Hachalu Hundessa, whose music carried Oromo language and memory to a global audience.