About Circle Process
Gathering in circle to create collaborative solutions to common problems is an ancient process used by many of our human ancestors and used around the world today.
The resurgence in recent years of circle process in the justice system, in community meetings, in families, in schools, and in business is a tribute to the power of this form to invite every person to share their wisdom and stories and then take thoughtful, collective action.
We honor native, indigenous, and First Nations peoples who have held the form of circle for tens of thousands of years. This site is a celebration of the reemergence of this form wherever it is needed.
There are a number of forms for holding a circle gathering or meeting. Some of the common elements are:
- creating a circular shape where everyone can see and hear each other
- co-creating a set of agreements or operating principles
- a mechanism to gather every voice, such as passing a talking piece
- a shared intention for the meeting
Calling the Circle Foundation (CtCF) does not espouse any specific form of circle. We encourage people to check the websites of the Circle Based Organizations listing to find easily accessible guidelines for calling a circle. The following websites also have free, downloadable guidelines that are helpful as a point of beginning: www.peerspirit.com, www.wisdomcircle.org, www.millionthcircle.org.
CtCF serves as a clearinghouse of information for those doing circle work and those interested in learning more about circle. We support and promote educational materials and programs that introduce and apply the principles and practices of circle as a social/spiritual movement.