The highest level(s) of influence this method typically matches with on the IAP2 public participation spectrum is…
Inform
To provide the public with balanced and objective information.
Consult
To obtain public feedback on analysis, alternatives and/or decisions.
Involve
To work directly with the public throughout the process.
Collaborate
To partner with the public in each aspect of the decision.
Empower
To place final decision making in the hands of the public.
Purpose
Time
Resources
Budget
Participants
The oral tradition of the Yarning Circle is widely used among Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. In some contexts, it is associated with Dadirri — a practice of deep inner listening and connection to Country, shared by the Ngan’gikurunggurr people of the Daly River region.
“Watching, listening, and learning through community gatherings, and from direct experiences, are practices that facilitate learning.”
— Mills, 2013
The use of Yarning Circles (or deep listening circles) is an important cultural process that has been practised by Indigenous peoples around the world for generations. It supports learning from collective experience, building respectful relationships, and preserving and passing on cultural knowledge.
A Yarning Circle provides a harmonious, creative and collaborative space for:
-
Responsible, respectful and honest interactions between participants
-
Building trust and accountability in a safe space
-
Person-to-person connection and group cohesion
-
Shared learning and reciprocal exchange
The Engagement Institute, like many organisations, is on a continuous learning journey in its engagement with First Nations peoples — in particular Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Māori, and Pasifika communities. We are committed to ongoing reflection and improvement, and will continue to update this page as we learn and grow. We welcome and encourage our members to share suggestions for improvements and additions.
What you'll need
In-person Delivery
- Carefully selected culturally appropriate venue
- Cultural protocols
- Mini kit of resources
- Catering (meals/refreshments as appropriate)
How to guide
Yarning circles can take a number of formats, but the following guidelines generally apply when initiating a yarning circle.
- Sit in a circle: Participants sit in a circle (ensuring everyone can see one another) and are encouraged to actively listen to others’ views. Participants should understand that they are all considered equal within the circle and that there is no hierarchy.
- Introduce the group: The host invites participants to introduce themselves and share something about themselves.
- Introduce focus questions: Yarning circles can be undertaken for many reasons. The host introduces the purpose of the yarning circle or the focus question to participants.
- Share ideas and thoughts: The host encourages participants to take turns to talk and to promote reciprocal sharing and learning. An artefact can be used to hand around to signal whose turn it is to speak. If anyone has a reaction to the speaker, they must respectfully wait their turn. It is ok to disagree.
- Reflect: Explain that participants are aiming for deep listening and being respectful to the speakers — that they need to take the speakers’ words in and think about their meaning. Resolve any actions or issues identified by the yarning circle, or agree to follow up in future yarning circles.
- Often these circles are framed as a safe place for all to speak without judgement and interruptions. The conversations within a yarning circle have always focused on strengths and not problem-solving and criticisms.