Circle processes offer a way of bringing people together to understand one another, strengthen bonds, and solve community problems—a necessity in an era of division, polarized politics, and angry debate.
Our ancestors gathered around a fire in a circle, families gather around their kitchen tables in circles, and now we are gathering in circles as communities to solve problems. This peacemaking practice draws on the ancient Native American tradition of a talking piece and combines that with concepts of democracy and inclusivity.
Peacemaking circles are used in neighborhoods to provide support for those harmed by crime and to decide sentences for those who commit crime, in schools to create positive classroom climates and resolve behavior problems, in the workplace to deal with conflict, and in social services to develop more organic support systems for people struggling to get their lives together. The circle process hinges on storytelling. It is an effort bringing astonishing results around the country.
Reviews:
I enjoyed this book because it was for beginners, and was more of an individual’s experience with circle processes. There is no one right way to hold a circle, and there’s so many different ways people can use circles. It was a simple, easy read that made me think about how I could use circle processes in my personal and professional life. (Amazon reviewer, 2018)
It has helped me learn more about facilitating community and peace in the spaces around me. I’ve become excited about using the skills introduced here. If you love people and want human harmony, this is a MUST read. (Amazon reviewer, 2018)
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