Yarning Circles
Yarning Circles are the cornerstone for how Yeddung Mura delivers their services and programs. They are also used to manage the organisation.
History
The Yarning Circle is rooted in the traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. They are used for sharing knowledge, building relationships, and fostering community. They are a reflection of Indigenous ways of communicating, learning, and healing, where everyone is considered equal, and there is no hierarchy.
Format
In a Yarning Circle, participants sit in a circle, which symbolises equality and promotes open, honest, and respectful communication. The circle encourages active listening, mutual respect, and shared understanding.
Facilitators
Facilitators are encouraged to set clear intentions, ensure equality, encourage active listening, and allow everyone a chance to speak without interruption.
Community Building
Yarning Circles strengthen our community bonds by providing a safe space for sharing experiences, building support networks, and reinforcing cultural identity.
Inclusive Continuous Learning
Yarning circles are used to deliver Yeddung Mura programs. This inclusive environment provides a unique, accepting, healing place that is culturally safe and takes account of differences in experiences, ways of communicating, values, kinship, families, and insight into healing that recognises the impact of trans-generational trauma, history, and experiences on current life situations of Aboriginal men and women exiting jail.
Counselling
They as therapeutic spaces where individuals can share personal stories, traumas, or emotions in a non-judgmental environment, aiding in emotional healing and well-being.
Conflict Resolution
Yarning Circles provide a structured yet informal setting for resolving disputes by encouraging dialogue and understanding from all perspectives.
Cultural Preservation
By practicing this tradition, Indigenous knowledge, stories, customs, and language are preserved and passed down to future generations, aiding in cultural resilience.
Health & Community Services
Yarning Circles are utilised to discuss health issues like vaccinations. They foster trust and better engagement with Indigenous communities on these topics.