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Understanding Haudenosaunee Culture and Peace

Oct 10, 2024

Lecture on the Haudenosaunee and the Great Law of Peace

Introduction

  • Welcome and Setting:
    • The Swamp family was welcomed at the National Museum of the American Indian.
    • Jake Swamp and his family are notable figures within the Haudenosaunee community.
    • Jake served in the Mohawk Nation Council for nearly 40 years.
    • The family founded the NGO Tree of Peace Society.

Overview of the Haudenosaunee

  • Six Nations:

    • Also known as Iroquois or Haudenosaunee ("people who build the longhouse").
    • Includes Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Tuscarora, Cayuga, and Seneca.
    • Population around 100,000 across various territories.
  • Philosophy and Tradition:

    • Known for a thinking tradition—intellectual and philosophical.
    • Embodied in the Great Law of Peace.
    • Influence on American democracy noted by figures like Benjamin Franklin.

Presentation Highlights

Skahindowane Swamp

  • Role and Contributions:

    • Artist and faith keeper of the Longhouse.
    • Appointed inaugural chair in Indigenous Knowledge at Trent University.
    • Discussed the new display of the traditional Mohawk headdress at the museum.
  • Thanksgiving and Symbols:

    • Traditional gatherings start with thanksgiving to Mother Earth and natural world.
    • The Celestial Dome symbol and its relation to peace and separation of worlds.
  • Headdress (Gostoa) Symbolism:

    • Represents the Tree of Peace.
    • White pine chosen for its symbolism of everlasting peace.
    • Different designs for each nation within Haudenosaunee.

Judy Swamp

  • Role of Women:

    • Heart of the family and culture.
    • Responsible for choosing leaders, emphasizing qualities like honesty and compassion.
  • Personal Stories and Teachings:

    • Shared upbringing and teachings from her uncle.
    • Discussed the importance of family and community involvement.
    • Selection of leaders based on character and actions.

Chief Jake Swamp

  • Advocacy and Teaching:

    • Spread the message of peace globally, planting trees as symbols.
    • Discussed the impact of grief on people worldwide.
  • Great Law of Peace:

    • History and teachings of the Great Law as a foundation for peace.
    • Discussed the influence on democracy and future projects to bring indigenous people together.
  • Environmental Concerns:

    • Stressed living in harmony with nature.
    • Expressed concerns about modern practices like fracking and environmental degradation.

Conclusion

  • Acknowledgments:

    • Importance of oral traditions and the role of the Swamp family in preserving these.
    • Encouragement to look towards future generations and instill teachings for a sustainable world.
  • Call to Action:

    • Plans for a gathering of indigenous people at the Mississippi River in 2012 for a condolence ceremony.
    • Importance of addressing grief and coming together to share knowledge and peace.