According to ABC linguistic expert Tiger Webb, “yarn” is a classic case of what linguists call “semantic shift” – when some words start to mean something else. In the 11th century, the word yarn was used for any spun fibre used in weaving. By the 17th century, “yarn” was used to refer to one of the single threads that are tied together to make rope. Today in Australia and New Zealand, it has become a story or tale.
For the Australian Indigenous community, yarning circles have been used for thousands of years to preserve and pass on cultural knowledge. In a yarning circle, people sit in a circle to listen to others, to learn, and to share their views. Although one person may open or lead the discussion, the circle usually has no formal hierarchy. It provides a safe place for all to speak without judgement.
“As you sit side by side with others in a circle, there is a beautiful physical and spiritual connection that takes place… When you sit in a circle, there is nowhere to hide. You are exposed. You have to speak truthfully, to be open and honest as you look people in the face and talk about whatever the topic might be… This might be in a family, around a campfire, at a workplace or in a government office. Everyone has always used it in our culture and people come, expecting to be honest”
-Sue Hodges, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Coordinator for the NSW and ACT Division
Yarning is about building respectful relationships through a collaborative way of communication. The conversations within a yarning circle have always focused on strengths and not problem solving and criticisms. Today, yarning circles are used as a meeting place for both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Aboriginal communities to come together. Such meeting place is much needed now at our workplace in Australia.
In the light of the Reconciliation Action Plan, many companies are increasing Indigenous employees’ participation in their workforce. However, the Indigenous Employment Index 2022 report shows, that Indigenous Australians remain vastly under-represented or excluded from the workforce – as of 2018, only 49.1% of working-age Indigenous Australians were in some form of employment. Employers are struggling to retain Indigenous employees, and often prioritise recruitment over retention and development. Other challenges that Indigenous employees face include racism and the lack of leadership opportunities.
“Being in large organisations, it is very tough being an Aboriginal person. And you just want that support from Aboriginal people. You need to, you know, have that yarn.”
-Indigenous employee, the Indigenous Employment Index 2022
Have we focused too much on hitting Indigenous employment targets but forgot to provide a supportive workplace environment for them? Where is the missing piece? To find out these answers, and better understand how to engage and retain Indigenous employees, we need to remove prejudice and use a democratic form of dialogue – a yarning circle is a perfect starting point.
Using custom-made ottomans is a great way to set up a yarning circle at work. Speak to our team to find out more design options.