We pray that leaders across all fields—religious, political, community, and economic—arise in unity, guided by the wisdom of the Creator, the Great Spirit, Wakan Tanka. This unity is not just a concept but a powerful force that can transform this age, heal, and restore its fortunes. Let them seek the guidance of their spirit, grounded in reflection on the needs of this world, and come together in sacred council. In this circle of counsel, may their purpose be singular and their deliberation full and sincere as they prepare to offer the remedy it requires to flourish once more in this sorely afflicted world. This unity is our power, hope, and path to a better future.
The light of divine wisdom shines brightest when illuminated by the twin stars of consultation and compassion. Let these leaders recognize that consultation, like a sacred fire, casts light upon the path ahead, guiding and uniting them with clarity and purpose. Compassion, the true fuel of this fire, connects all who gather and have the power to bridge differences, dispel fear, and plant seeds of collective vision. This compassion makes the lamp of consultation steady, bright, and enduring—bestowing understanding upon all who listen with open hearts and spirits.
In this time of need, may those entrusted with the care of humanity recognize their sacred responsibility: to rise together and hold in their vision the unshakable goal of uniting humanity and restoring Mother Earth. This responsibility is not a burden but a shared commitment, a sacred duty that binds us all. Let them stand rooted in the understanding that this shared destiny is a gift from the Creator, one that we are bound by a sacred duty to fulfill for ourselves and all generations yet to come. In the unity of their spirits and the depth of their compassion, may they walk together, honoring the vision and strength required to heal, uplift, and renew the sacred circle of life.
Shunkmanu He Me Yedo! Shunkmanu He Me Yedo!
Hinhan Wicasta/Deloria Tiospaye, Inanktonwan, and Chickasaw Nations
Principles of Consultation
Purpose
Consultation brings diverse members of the Human Family together to:
Build understanding, trust, and commitment.
Discover opportunities and resolve issues.
Determine the best course of action with a unified approach.
Key Principles
1) Respect Each Participant:
2)Embrace each person’s perspective and appreciate their diversity. Respect is essential for effective consultation.
3. Value Every Contribution:
Honor each input without judgment. Reserve evaluations until everyone’s contributions are shared.
4) Encourage Open Expression:
Share your thoughts freely, fostering an open and constructive environment.
5)Consider Other Perspectives:
Listen carefully to others. If you find value in another’s view, adopt it as if it were your own.
6) Stay Mission-Focused:
Keep discussions relevant to the goal. Team-building is valuable, but consultation should remain focused on finding solutions.
Unite in Purpose
7) Align with the group’s goal, desiring success for all involved.
Welcome Truth from Diverse Opinions
Understand that truth often emerges from differing viewpoints. Embrace the diversity of opinions to reach the best solution.
8) Release Personal Attachment
Once shared, let go of your opinion. Defending it as “yours” disrupts harmony and can obscure the truth.
9)Maintain Courtesy
Contribute to a friendly atmosphere by speaking with respect, moderation, and care, promoting unity and openness.
10) Seek Consensus, Then Majority
Aim for consensus. If that’s not possible, let the majority decide. Once a decision is made, commit to it fully, as collective support enables continuous learning and improvement. In unity, we can better understand where any mistakes may have been.
Steps for Unified Action
1) Define the Issue Clearly
Make sure everyone understands the topic. It may help to write it down visibly for reference.
2) Identify Relevant Principles
Think about the values or spiritual principles that should inform the solution, and consider values whose absence may have contributed to the issue.
3) Gather Information
Share what is already known and, if necessary, conduct further research by consulting various sources, including experts and community members.
4)Ensure Group Understanding
Confirm that everyone understands the information gathered before moving forward.
5) Express Opinions Guided by Principles
Each member should share their view based on the guiding principles. Allow everyone a chance to speak before anyone contributes a second time?
6) Avoid Taking Offense
Embrace differing opinions without feeling offended. A creative solution often arises from the respectful clash of perspectives.
Release Attachment to Personal Views
7) Once you share your opinion, let it go. It no longer belongs to you; it’s part of the group’s collective input.
8) Synthesize Ideas into a Plan of Action
The facilitator or a group member should summarize the ideas into a course of action everyone can support.
9)Ensure All Important Points Are Included
If someone feels a critical aspect has been missed, please let them know before moving forward.
10) Repeat Steps 5-9 as Needed
11) If consensus is still being determined, revisit previous steps. If you need any essential information, please take time to gather it.
12) Majority Decision as Last Resort
13) Use a majority vote only if consensus remains out of reach.
Everyone wholeheartedly supports the Final Decision.
14) Once a decision is made, everyone commits fully. United action reveals any flaws in the plan, allowing for adjustments without discord.
Following these principles, consultation becomes a powerful process for shared understanding, mutual trust, and meaningful action. It enables communities to navigate challenges in unity and resilience.
