viestintäkeppinä

Viestintäkeppinä is a Finnish term that translates directly to "communication stick" or "talking stick." It is a cultural artifact used in various Indigenous traditions, particularly among Native American tribes, as a tool to facilitate respectful and equitable communication within a group. The concept has been adopted and adapted by other cultures and organizations seeking to improve their dialogue and decision-making processes.

The core principle behind the viestintäkeppinä is that only the person holding the stick has the right to speak. This simple mechanism ensures that one person speaks at a time, preventing interruptions and allowing everyone an opportunity to be heard. When someone wishes to speak, they signal their desire, and when they receive the stick, they can share their thoughts or perspectives. Once they have finished speaking, they pass the stick to the next person who wishes to contribute.

Using a viestintäkeppinä can foster a sense of equality, as no voice is inherently more important than another. It encourages active listening and thoughtful responses, as individuals are aware that their turn to speak will come. The practice can be particularly useful in situations where group dynamics might otherwise lead to dominance by a few individuals or where heated discussions need to be managed constructively. While traditionally made of wood and often adorned with symbolic items, the modern adaptation can involve any object designated as the talking stick for a particular meeting or discussion.