PEACE through PIE

A PIE Circle is a method of practicing guided conversation in order to listen respectfully, offer thoughtful feedback, build trust, and foster healthy relationships. PIE Circles create Welcome Spaces and cultivate Peace of Mind. A PIE Circle is based on an age-old form of conflict resolution, where a circular arrangement offers guided opportunities for each person to have their voice heard. Number of participants, theme for conversation, and length of time can be customized. So can the basic ground rules everyone agrees to honor. An important component is a “Talking Piece” (any small object that fits comfortably in the hand, such as a ball of yarn, smooth rock, or fabric bean bag). One person is appointed as the guide. Only the person holding Talking Piece has permission to speak, as the conversation makes its way around the circle. Everyone else agrees to wait their turn. Communication skills gained from this basic practice can be exercised at home, at work, and in the community. Peace through PIE’s inaugural PIE Circle program took place in Austin, Texas at William B. Travis High School (April 2018). 1400 students shared guided conversation in groups of 140 circles. The theme for this event was the impact of sharing food in conflict resolution. Individual handheld PEACE PIES were created for all participants by Travis culinary students led by Chef Adam Phillips.