Peace Circles: Promoting voice and collaboration among students to create a violence-free future.”

For young people, to dream of a future without violence is an act of bravery.  Creating a violence-free future is an important goal and providing children with a platform to express themselves through peace circles is a powerful way to empower them toward that goal. Restorative circles have proved to be effective in addressing conflicts and promoting healing in communities and schools.    

What are Peace circles?

Restorative circles, which include peace circles, have roots in indigenous traditions and have been used to make decisions, resolve conflict, and build community for centuries. These practices have been shared and adopted across the world and are commonly used to address conflict and promote healing in schools and communities. As individuals come together in a circle process, they can share their thoughts and feelings in a safe and respectful space. Everyone has an equal voice. These circles provide a structured process for resolving conflict, discussing difficult issues, and understanding perspectives.

How Do Peace Circles Work?

Peace Circles work by:

A peace circle is a powerful process that invites young people to share their perspective, address conflict, and promote healing. When they are empowered to speak their truth, they can take an active role in solving problems and overcoming challenges. The facilitator leads the group through a set of questions that invite empathy, reflection, and connection. These conversations can promote healing, strengthen relationships, and encourage people to take collective responsibility for creating positive change. A peace circle can take place in schools, community organizations, workplaces, neighborhoods, and other settings where people converge.

WHAT IS THE MONTH OF NONVIOLENCE, FAMILIES, VOTING RIGHTS AND OPPORTUNITIES?

The Month of Nonviolence, Families, Voting Rights and Opportunities is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, youth, Millennials, Faith Institutions, business leaders, athletes, Educators and everyone else to organize large and small events to promote non-violence, peace and getting along. You are invited to schedule your own event in your own neighborhood to inform youth that they can master their anger, and learn conflict resolution and anti-bullying skills.