Communication, especially in groups whose members have divergent views, is key to coordinating policies and actions. The “Talking Stick” is a traditional tool of indigenous democracy, used in various cultures, from the Masai of Africa (who call it “The Speaker’s Staff”) to many Native American tribes, during group communication. The person holding the talking stick has the attention of the group; it is meant to assure that each person can be heard, and can offer their views without being ignored, shouted down, co-opted, shamed or otherwise ostracized. A modern adaptation of the talking stick principles may be one key to productive inter-cultural relationships; and actions across cultures centered on larger issues such as sustainability, climate change, war and peace. The basic principles and techniques are already in use today in some settings as part of conflict resolution.
