09/10/2026
Please join us for our Dgwaget (Fall) Virtual Talking Circle on September 17, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. CT.
The event will include a presentation featuring Joseph Zientek, Vice Commander of the CPN Veterans Organization. He will talk about the meaning of the eagle staff and his journey to learning what it takes to carry the eagle staff in a traditional way.
The talking circle, which is often used in Potawatomi and other tribal ceremonies, is a conversation method that ensures everyone’s voice can be heard. In a talking circle, only one person speaks at a time. There is no interrupting or agreement or disagreement. Only one person at a time has the floor to share their thoughts. Please know that if you don’t have anything to say, that is perfectly ok; you are empowered to say as much or as little as you’d like. Everyone else will focus on active listening.
In a ceremonial context, we’d be seated in a circle and pass an eagle feather or other object to our left to know who is speaking. In a virtual context, that isn’t possible in the same way. A moderator will post an order list in the chat box.
Participants are asked to make this virtual circle a place of respect by listening carefully and refraining from sharing any stories that are not yours after we wrap up. Stories stay, lessons leave.
Join on Zoom: https://citizenpotawatomi.zoom.us/j/87085918121?pwd=eBak0blfsLdNMuXimSiWVb81Tf1rkC.1
