Use this Circle Facilitator Guide with teams and organization members to explore decision-making and fair processes within your community.
Welcome to the Space of the Circle.
MINDFULNESS MOMENT Pause, breathe, and listen to the sound.
OPENING
Peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace.
- Unknown
INTRODUCE "ROUNDS" A "round" is a pass of the talking piece around the Circle. The keeper poses a question and, as a participant, may answer first. The keeper then passes the talking piece to the person to their left or right (or names the next person over Zoom). On the first round, participants are invited to say their name and pronouns as well as respond to the question. Remember, it is always okay for a participant to pass.
Remind the group of Circle values and guidelines. These can be ones established in previous circles or be created new each time with new participants. Some helpful sharing guidelines may include:
Share what you feel comfortable sharing.
Respect the talking piece
You can pass at any time.
Be mindful of time.
Respect the privacy of those sharing.
Trust intent/name impact
Use “I” statements
Speak from the heart/listen from the heart
Be here now
Prioritize connection before content
Be both teachers and learners
Have fun!
ROUND Share your name, pronouns and what brought you to this circle today.
ROUND How do you expect to be treated by people in positions of authority or influence?
ROUND What’s important for you to know as a participant or leader when heading into a decision-making process?
ROUND Think about a time when you were treated unfairly in a decision-making process. What was missing that would have made the experience feel more fair?
LEARN Explore the concept of Fair Process by reviewing the video below:
LEARN Be intentional about HOW you can invite, gather, and engage people in a decision-making process by exploring the "Six Conversations" (further reading available here)
ROUND What is a commitment or declaration of possibility you are leaving with?
CHECK-OUT ROUND What gifts did you receive from our circle today?
CLOSING Listen to a 3-Step Breathing Space guided meditation practice
Thank everyone for participating in the Circle!