Creating Space in Sharing Circles

Creating Space in Sharing Circles:

Learners are invited through Circle dialogue to verbalize their understanding of the various concepts and encouraged to develop the ability to think and speak critically. An open process such as this addresses denial and repression; the more voice you give learners, the more you empower them and help them move forward. This is critical for Indigenous learners and necessary for all people who have been shaped by the colonial history of Canada.

Environmental space is important if a room is to feel welcoming. Soft music in the background helps to set the mood. Flute music or sounds of nature, or any other kind of soft music. If possible, have the lights dimmed or candles. It is important that the room is seen as a neutral space away from disturbances. When choosing your space it is best to choose a room where there are no time constraints, for example, if another group is going to be using the room at a certain time then it might be a good idea to use another room, this allows enough time for discussion. Depending on the size of the Circle and the willingness of the participants it could take a few hours or a few minutes. It is recommended that there are no time limits, however, people can be reminded in the beginning to speak leanly, especially if it is a large group. Some groups have incorporated a sand hourglass to serve as a reminder to people it is time to move on.

When people are feeling safe, they will be more open to talking. In the beginning, some women may not want to speak and that is ok, nobody is forced to speak. It is always a good idea to use a talking piece to set the flow and allow for a natural rhythm to develop, allowing one person to speak at a time and reminding others to listen. The talking piece can be made by the group or can be as simple as a rock or feather. Again, no one is ever forced to speak and may pass at any time the talking piece comes to them. If you notice that people are always passing when it is their turn, that might have to do with issues around safety. Participation may change once a certain comfort level is met or you may want to touch base with them after the Circle and ask if there is anything you can do to make the environment safer for them. It is nice if refreshments are made available and breaks are taken when needed.

The more you ask for input from the group the more it allows them to feel a sense of ownership or belonging to the group and in turn will be more open to sharing once they know they are safe, heard and respected. Sometimes even small things like allowing them to choose the snacks for the evening will help to create a sense of belonging. It is important to have a co-facilitator or an Elder to assist with the Circle process as someone might be triggered and need to debrief with the facilitator.

A Note on Sharing Circle Questions

Questions are provided for Individual self-reflection as well as Staff and Women’s Sharing Circles. Sharing Circle questions are intended only to serve as a guide or reference for beginning a Circle discussion. Discussion and questions will emerge naturally out of the Circle process and Sharing Circle facilitators are encouraged to be responsive to the group. Facilitators guide the Circle and the questions also serve as a guide; they are not the only questions that can be asked, you do not even have to ask any of them.