Areitos (Circle Practice) for Classrooms

Circles are a common practice among collectivist cultures. Indigenous and African cultures came together in circles to learn, pass on tradition, conduct religious ceremonies, and much more. In the land of Boriken, today known as Puerto Rico, the Taino People had their own circle practice. Areitos are an opportunity for educators to get to know their students using themes found in the content of this resource to help unearth connections students are making between themselves, the world, and the story of the Young Lords. This practice is distinct from an advisory or morning meeting in that it does not require you to follow a particular protocol or structure. Instead, what is asked of you, is an opportunity to learn how to just sit and be with your students. This Areito Guidebook provides more detailed guidance and a sample areito sequence for teachers to use. It is also included in the Appendix of each unit. You can also download the Areito Guidebook here.