Gathering in circles is a global and deeply human experience. Across cultures and histories, people have gathered in circles for learning, ceremony, storytelling, music, movement, decision-making, healing, and community.

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There is no single way to “do” Circle. Circle gatherings have been practiced by geographically and historically diverse groups of people for centuries, each with their own meanings, protocols, and cultural contexts.

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At the same time, in the current Canadian context, and specifically in RFNL’s work, much of what we know about restorative and relational Circle practice comes from the sacred tradition of North American Indigenous Talking Circles and Peace Circles. RFNL recognizes and respects traditional Indigenous ceremonial circles and the cultural, spiritual, and community-specific knowledge they carry.

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The circle processes RFNL uses and teaches are not intended to replicate, replace, or claim traditional ceremonial circles. While there are similarities, including gathering in a circle, listening deeply, using a talking piece, and grounding the process in shared values, RFNL approaches Circle as a restorative and relational process for learning, dialogue, relationship-building, reflection, and accountability.

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We understand this work as something to receive and share with care. We work to honour the roots of Circle by learning from those who live within these traditions, reflecting on our own intent and positionality, respecting cultural context, and sharing what we have learned in ways that promote understanding rather than superficial engagement.

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For RFNL, this responsibility is connected to our ongoing learning with Indigenous leaders, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, communities, and traditions in Newfoundland and Labrador, and with others who carry long histories of circle-based relational practice.