Workshop: Introduction to ‘Peacemaking Circles’

Navigating a world shaped by discrimination can be overwhelming, especially for those of us from marginalised communities. This workshop introduces the Circle model, inspired by the Ojibwa First Nations community in Hollow Water (Canada).
The Circle format fosters equality, enabling open and transparent exchanges, ensuring that all voices are heard, and creating a safer and supportive
environment.

In this workshop, we’ll explore how the Circle Process can be a powerful tool, in all areas of our lives, promoting flat hierarchies and inclusive communication. Participants will learn to use the Circle method to communicate more effectively and harmoniously, leading to stronger communities and creative teams. Communication within the Circle is indirect, with no cross-talk, allowing space for reflection and respectful dialogue.

The workshop will focus on the Circle Format and its application in your daily life:

• Understanding the Circle – learn the origins and principles of the Circle practice.
• Building a ‘Safe Container’ by coming up with our own Guidelines.
• Sitting in Circle.

The goal is to leave feeling more connected, empowered, and equipped to foster inclusivity in our communities.

Taj Irzhavsky (they/them) is a white, queer, non-binary artist and filmmaker. Taj is a trained Circle Keeper at the Hidden Water organisation (New York). Since 2024, Taj have been volunteering as a Junior Circle Keeper at Hidden Water.
Yoкка (she/her) first discovered the Circle Principle through the *Discussion Group Social Fiction* project, where she was fascinated by its ability to create a safer and open space for people to speak and listen deeply. She’s now facilitating the workshop with Taj to foster inclusive dialogue and
empower participants to share their voices.

Date: September 28th
Time: 12:00 – 15:00 (with a 20 minutes break)
Facilitators/Circle Keepers: Taj Irzhavsky, Yoккa
Location: HANS A (Dortmund)

What to Bring: A notebook and pen to take notes, a small item you can hold in your hand that means something to you. We teach Circle by doing Circle. So it is important you are prepared to be engaged and keep the space as safe as possible.
Spoken Language: The workshop will be held in English. Additionally we can decide as a group if we want to do the Circle multilingual in English & German.
Capacity of the workshop: 10 participants

Please register until September 22nd at peacecircle@googlegroups.com

This workshop will have a component of Circle, and participants with or without Circle experience are welcome. This Circle focuses on building connections.