The Unity Circle – Family Gatherings: Healing Families and Community Through Connection

The Unity Circle-Family Gatherings provide a space for healing and support, holding deep meaning rooted in cultural values and community ties. Family extends beyond immediate relatives to encompass the entire community, creating a sense of interconnectedness and shared heritage. This extended network becomes an invaluable source of emotional and spiritual support during challenging times. Whether gathering to celebrate achievements, commemorate milestones, or offer each other strength during hardships, the Unity Circle-Family Gatherings contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

Taking place in person every other month, these gatherings bring individuals and families from the greater Illinois Native/Indigenous community together to foster community healing. Activities are centered and rooted in traditional healing with contemporary approaches, fostering a holistic and welcoming environment that strengthens bonds and deepens connections between individuals, families, and the broader community. These gatherings become a conduit for the intergenerational transfer of cultural identity, ensuring its vital legacy for future generations.

The Unity Circle-Family Gatherings also provide an opportunity for communal celebration, reinforcing a sense of belonging and shared history. Gathering to honor shared values and celebrate cultural heritage strengthens unity, resilience, and solidarity among community members. These are not merely social events but sacred moments that transcend simple social interaction, reinforcing the interconnectedness of individuals, families, and the wider community. They represent a continuation of a timeless tradition that sustains cultural vitality, fosters resilience, and preserves the vibrant tapestry of Native heritage for generations to come.

For questions or to register, please contact Ana Fuentes at afuentes@aihschgo.org or Shandiin Begay at sbegay@aihschgo.org or call 773-883-9100