| Abbreviation | None |
|---|---|
| Formation | Ancient |
| Type | Sovereign Native American government |
| Purpose | Governance of the Onondaga Nation |
| Headquarters | Onondaga Nation Territory, New York |
Official language | Onondaga, English |
Hoyane (Chief) | Varies (elected for life) |
Main organ | Grand Council |
Parent organization | None |
The Onondaga Council governs the Onondaga Nation, a sovereign nation, one of six nations of the Iroquois people, that lives on a portion of its ancestral territory and maintains its own distinct laws, language, customs, and culture.[1] The "nation" is not governed by a Council of Chiefs since the notion of federalism and proportional representation was strictly adhered to. After the dissolution of the League, interests lie only in external matters such as war, peace, and treaty-making to further the unanimity of the United States government. Since Tadodaho was appointed to the council fire and given weapons to protect the sacred fire within the house, the Grand Council could not interfere in the internal affairs of the tribe. Their role was limited to matters between themselves and other tribes; they had no say in matters that were traditionally the concern of the ability of the clan names.[2]
The Onondaga Nation government does not pay income, sales, or excise taxes to New York State or to the federal government of the United States, nor does it receive any of the benefits paid for by these taxes.[1]