Talking circle
A talking circle, is a method used by a group to discuss a topic in an egalitarian and non-confrontational manner. The group members sit in a circle and make comment on the topic of the discussion following a small number of rules:
1. Only the person holding the talking stick (or other item) may speak.
2. An effort is made to listen as you would want to be listened to when you are speaking.
3. The talking stick passes around the circle.
Ideally everybody forms a seated circle shoulder-to-shoulder, so that they can see everybody else's face, including those on either side of them. This becomes impractical for large circles and folks may be nested 3 or more deep so that everyone is close enough to hear. A ceremonial opening (and closing) is used in some circles.
Each person is given the opportunity to speak in turn, the speaker holding the talking stick. If they speak loudly enough for a person on the opposite side of the circle to hear (and, when outdoors, it's not very windy) everyone in the circle can hear them.
Unlike meetings, in an effective talking circle speakers are not interrupted by other participants, though this 'rule' may be broken by a request to "address the stick", particularly if something is factually incorrect or controversial. It is the speaker's decision to allow or disallow the interruption. Interruptions generally slow down the process. Some people take notes so they can address particular points that have been raised by others when it is their turn to speak. In international circles a translator may also be involved in the process. As the speaker completes their turn, they pass the stick to their neighbor, who may speak or may, in silence, pass the stick on.
A large circle may continue over successive days. Discussion continues until consensus is reached, that is, no one objects to the proposed decision (it may be obvious that consensus has been reached; or the speaker may say that they are "testing for consensus", silence denotes agreement), or until the stick has been passed around the whole circle once in silence. While highly decorated ceremonial talking sticks are often used, in some circles it is the practice to use a stick found on the ground and to burn it at the end of the circle.
Confidentiality is a key element to all talking circles and an expectation. Attendees are reminded of the requirement and sensitive to the information being shared.
RULES OF THE TALKING CIRCLE
Talking Circles in Cherokee: (woni gasaqualv)
1. The person holding the "talking feather" or some other Native American object is the only who has the right to talk. Even if it takes several minutes to think about what they wish to say or if there is a pause in the conversation. Whoever has the "talking feather" has the floor.
2. If someone in the circle wishes to express a view or comment on what is being said, it is limited to noises that can be made through the nose. This would be a faint grunt of agreement. Any comments, especially negative comments while someone is speaking are absolutely not allowed. In fact, they are banned. Each person MUST wait his or her turn.
3. When the "talking feather" comes to you, you may talk about "whatever is in your heart or on your mind." There may be an overall topic that the Talking Circle is discussing but you are in no way limited to discussing or commenting on anything anyone has said. A talking circle is not limited in topic content. You are free to say whatever you desire, without limitation or fear. Talking circles are safe environments and you should feel comfortable knowing that no one will interrupt or criticize you.
4. If someone talks longer than what seems customary (this is called "overlong") then those in the circle may quietly cough as a signal. The term "overlong" is usually defined according to the size of the circle, topic, and how long the group intends on spending in the circle. This may be discussed before the circle begins. Typically, 3 -10 minutes is a sufficient amount of time to talk. If you have the "talking feather" and notice that others are quietly coughing, it's time to pass the feather to the next person.
Using an alarm or timer is inappropriate for a Talking Circle because it would disrupt the flow of communication and energy. It would also create an unnatural presence to the circle.
5. The circle can go around several times or until everybody has had at least one opportunity to talk. If the group is large, time constraints may be placed beforehand, although remembering that interruptions are not allowed. The "talking feather" can be passed around once again to give everyone the feeling that they have left nothing unsaid.
http://www.drstandley.com/nativeamerican_talking_circles.shtml