Kay Pranis: The Art of Holding Circle

Kay Pranis, a facilitator of peacemaking circles, believes that each of us is inherently good, wise, and powerful. This, along with the remaining six core assumptions, form the foundation for her practice and way of using circle processes. Based on an indigenous tradition, circle allows for individuals to unite around a common cause or conflict, and address it openly so each participant feels deeply heard and can together work toward a resolution. Kay's use of circle has been transformative in communities, prison systems, schools, and various social institutions. "We cannot necessarily undo harm that happened," says Kay, "but we can move toward healing and toward being more constructive with one another. We can be authentic in a space that's grounded in these values of whom we want to be when we are at our best."