Seal
and Clans of the Oneida Indian Nation...
Bear, Turtle and Wolf are the three clans of the Oneida
Indian Nation.
Ours is a matrilineal society, which means your clan and Nation membership all
come from your mother.
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About our seal:
Eagle
The Eagle is the protector and has great vision to watch over all of our Nations.
It will warn us of impending danger.
Wampum Belt
This belt symbolizes the six nations in the Hatinusu:ni [Haudenosaunee or Iroquois
Confederacy]. The Wampum has the power to make a good mind.
Tree of Peace
This is said to be a great white pine tree, and was planted when the Peacemaker
came to visit our people and bring the good message of peace, power, and righteousness.
Under the white roots, which spread in all four directions, all the weapons
of our people were buried for purposes of creating an everlasting peace.
Turtle: taught us patience, never to give up.
Seen as strength and solidarity, old and wise, and well respected.
Wolf: taught us to use our ears and be watchful.
Strong sense of family.