Honoring the Indigenous Origins of Listening Circles with a Commitment to Cultural Humility
We acknowledge that listening circles, also known as talking circles, are traditional Indigenous practices that have been used for generations to build community, support healing, and pass down knowledge through deep and respectful listening. Participants gather in a circle to emphasize equality, often using a distinguishing sacred object—such as an eagle feather or stone, or even a talking stick—that is passed to the speaker, allowing for uninterrupted sharing and sincere expression. These practices have been used by many Indigenous peoples, including Woodland and Iroquois tribes, for community connection, decision-making, and, more recently, restorative justice.
We approach this practice through the lens of cultural humility, understanding this is a lifelong commitment to self-reflection, ongoing learning, and the careful examination of power dynamics within relationships. We acknowledge the legacy of colonization which often involved the appropriation of Indigenous practices without reverence or consent, rather than their protection and honoring. As participants in a practice that is not ours by origin, we commit to engaging with it consciously, respectfully, and without claiming ownership or authority.
Our intention in engaging with this practice is to honor its origins and significance, and to promote its wisdom. We do not seek to borrow, appropriate, or co-opt these traditions, but rather to participate with reverence in a long-standing practice that has contributed to collective ways of knowing and healing across generations.
The enduring strength of this practice displays its inherent resilience and flexibility, enabling it to be adapted to present circumstances.
Recognizing the Longstanding Violence Against Black and Brown Communities
In light of recent events, we recognize that while this type of violence is receiving widespread attention now, Black and Brown communities have faced targeted violence for generations—experiences that have too often gone unacknowledged. Privilege has allowed many of us to remain unaware and unaffected by their suffering. This space is committed to listening to, believing, and honoring these stories and experiences. In this space, we will witness and acknowledge the fear and pain that Black and Brown communities have been expressing for years. We affirm our commitment to anti-racism, acknowledge that government-sanctioned violence against unarmed civilians is a long-standing issue, and stand in solidarity with these communities in the ongoing pursuit of justice.
