In days gone by and in some current tribal structures Native Americans would meet to discuss community issues such as moving for the season, hunting problems, family dissent, and any complaints within the tribe. All were welcome at these Council Meetings which were, generally, presided over by the Chief of the tribe, warrior leaders, Medicine people, Elders, anyone in the tribe with an issue, and any from outside tribes who might be involved.  With such a great many people present at a meeting of this scope it was vitally important that each person have an opportunity to speak his, or her piece without interruption, ridicule, or threats. The way this was done was using a Talking Stick.

As the meeting began the Chief, or other leader of the meeting welcomed the four direction, wanka tanka, and all good spirits of the earth. Then formal announcements were made about the purpose of the meeting, the area and people were smudged to rid the area of any negative energies and the Lead speaker began by picking up the Talking Stick. When he or she finished speaking the stick was passed around to the next person within the circle. Whoever held the talking stick was the only one allowed to talk. Usually, one prepared a speech before the meeting so as not to take up too much time and so the spirits would not become bored and invite the Trickster in. The stick might be passed around many times but, before the meeting closed, all would have spoken the truth from their hearts and resolution, or the plan toward working toward resolution, would have been reached. 

In many circles the tradition of the Talking Stick is still used and honored.

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This Page Was Last Updated March 27, 2002