The Talking Stick is a small Totem pole. A tool used traditionally in many Native American, African and Aboriginal tribes, when Council circles, ceremonies, the beginning of cultural events and storytelling circles are called.It allows all council members to present their Sacred Point of view. The Talking Stick is passed from person to person as they speak. Only the person holding this stick is allowed to speak during that time period.
The Talking Stick, is used in many indigenous cultures. This ancient and powerful ‘communication tool’, ensuring a code of conduct of respect is followed during meetings.The person holding that stick, and only that person, is designated as having the right to speak. All others must listen quietly and respectfully.
Many schools have adopted the Talking Stick principles, in their classrooms, as a way to teach children patience, self discipline and to respect the speaker and his/her words. The added bonus is the children additionally are learning about First Nation culture in a tangible way. Also becoming popular at Group counselling sessions and the Modern Family unit are adapting its use for ‘Family Chats’.