Authentic Circles of Sovereignty

2-hour online weekly space to tune in, explore what’s present, and release what might be stuck via community, creative expression, yoga, and movement. Space prioritized for the voices and healing of Black/POC/Indigenous women, immigrant, femme, trans, and nonbinary-identifying people.

Circles are held every Thursday from 6-8pm PST.

Join the Weekly Practice

Move, Breathe, Feel, Connect - Every Week.

Moving Spirits performing at the Ohio Dance Festival (photograph by Jess Cavender)

Moving Spirits performing at the Ohio Dance Festival (photograph by Jess Cavender)

Authentic Circles of Sovereignty is…

inspired by the history of ring shouts, a practice created by enslaved West African people brought to North America & the Caribbean, that consisted of singing, dancing, clapping, and stomping in rhythm while moving counter-clockwise in a circle.

Practiced in the late evening hours to maintain its secrecy, the ring shouts were an act of ritual and resistance to honor the ancestors, bury the deceased, and worship in community, providing unification and cultural preservation.

“It holds the memories of those who came before us…Ring Shout is blood memory.” - Tamara Williams

Learn More

Modern Day Ring Shout

Just as our ancestors practiced ring shouts as a tool of resistance to invoke Spirit and foster joy & collective healing despite times of immense suffering, deep grief, and forced conformity, Authentic Circles of Sovereignty is a practice space for individuals to come together to tap into the spirit to release, to expel, to mourn, to grieve,

to pray, to exhale, to remember and reclaim, to expand, dream, and be while in community. In these uncertain and misfortunate times of corruption, systems failing and falling, war, and genocide, tending to our spirits and adjusting our crowns in safe and supportive community is more necessary than EVER.

More about Authentic Circles:

  • Who is this for?

    • While all are welcome, this is a space especially prioritized for the experiences, healing, and voices of Black/POC/Indigenous women, immigrant, femme, trans, and nonbinary-identifying people - those often overlooked in wellness and creative communities.

      I ask that those outside of this lived experience honor the tone and priority of the space with gentleness and awareness.

    Can children join?

    • While children are most welcome to be present in the space, the content and activities for these circles will be tailored towards adults.

    What do I need to bring to these events?

    • An open mind :) Also, a journal, pen/pencil, soothing items i.e. blankets, pillows, tea, etc. Questions, thoughts, reflections from the week that you’d like to explore or share in the circle.

    Will these events be recorded?

    • No. Due to protecting the privacy and sacredness of each circle, recordings will not be provided.

    Will there be opportunities to meet up in person?

    • Yes! In person meet ups are currently being planned - so stay tuned!

    Is this a therapy group?

    • No — this isn’t a therapy group or clinical space. It’s a creative, embodied space for exploration, reflection, and connection. While healing can happen, this isn’t a substitute for therapy, and you’re not required to share unless you feel called to.

    I’m not an artist / I’m not flexible / I’ve never done yoga — is this for me?

    • Absolutely. You don’t need to be “good” at anything to join. No art or yoga experience is required — just curiosity & openness. Everything is an invitation.

    What if I’m feeling overwhelmed or unsure once I join?

    • That’s understandable. You’re always welcome to take space, step away, or just be in the background.

      Engaging in whatever way feels safe and true for you is encouraged -whether camera on or off, sharing or just listening, joining each week or simply when it feels right.

  • This circle is offered in the spirit of accessibility and mutual care. Donations help support the time, energy, and resources it takes to hold this space. If this offering nourishes you and you're in a position to give, your donation helps me continue this work - but no one is turned away.

    Donation Options:

    Venmo - @chantel-dominique92

    Cashapp - $ChantelTaite

  • This circle is sustained through shared energy, creativity, and care. If you feel called to support — by leading, making, sharing, or donating — there’s a place for you. Let me know what you’re drawn to, and we’ll co-create from there.

    Be a Guest Facilitator or Speaker

    • Offer a short talk, reflection, or mini-practice that aligns with the circle’s intention — a learned skill, movement, art, rest, ancestral healing, breathwork, storytelling,

    Curate a Playlist

    • Create a playlist for movement, journaling, or resting that the circle can use. Music is medicine, and it’s a way to share energy and culture.

    Lead a Mini Creative Practice or Workshop

    • Host a 15–30 minute creative invitation — poetry prompts, collage, watercolor, voice, or movement-based creation. Share with us what lights you up.

    Spread the Word

    • Share about this circle with your community, social connections, or personally invite someone who might need it. Your voice helps the right people find this space.

The Agenda

Commune & Settle

Settle in and explore your surroundings, those around you, and those you may possibly engage with.

Grounding

Ground into the space, into the earth, and into each other’s presence.

Art Express

Choose your adventure, aka your art medium, to move through and express what needs to be freed.

Let’s Explore It

Explore what’s present via gentle movement, intentional breath, and guided reflection.

Open Mic

Designated space for people to share, witness, and be witnessed.

Sign Up Here

Circles are held every Thursday from 6-8pm PST.