The Peacemaker & the Tadadaho

This short film is part of 8 short, testimonial films, on the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois.) The Iroquois are embarking on an historic project about the 500-year history of the Iroquois, their relationship with Europe and America and their prophesies that, if heard, can help us navigate the oncoming changes due to climate change. This series of short films is done via their testimony, and creates the space for the Iroquois to tell their story as they strive to uphold the traditions and the legacy of their people while also protecting the central tenents of their people and their relationship and care for the Earth.

[LydzFHP]

Oren had a big influence on me wanting to pursue art. I saw this painting when I was 5 years old. Not a lot of people know he's a great artist as well.

[jacobgates]

I'm proud to say that I'm from 6 nation of iroquois Confederation and I'm Seneca on cattaraugus rez. And my family's clan is the turtle clan nd has deep roots for my nation. My grandma is a judge on the rez and my uncle Todd Gates was the president of the whole Seneca nation . And that democracy of America is based on the way the senca laws of democracy and I am proud native from 2 strong tribes.

[ataraxia]

It’s amazing that Tadadaho was included in. the end. I think people today would treat someone like that with unbelievable cruelty and also feel justified in doing so. You have to have a deep compassion and understanding of the harm perpetuated by rescinding someone’s humanity. I feel so emotional every time I hear that part of the story.

[Tolmonster]

The best part of this story is that it’s based on true events. It is not a myth. Aspects of the story might have accrued some exaggeration, but there was a man who united the tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy under a phenomenally stable constitution. A young Ben Franklin read about this event and the founding fathers implemented most of these statutes into the US constitution. It is a matter of historical record.

[SpiritAligned]

Gave me shivers in the end. Beautiful.

[terrybarber]

Good to hear this told from a m member of the nations involved I first read Jean Houston’s account in her book about the Pracemaker. She said she had it from various members. It is a story I shared with my English students after reading it in her book. They were silent and attentive.

[kizunadragon]

As an upstate New Yorker born and raised i am very proud to live among such people. It's an amazing history of America's first democracy. it's my honor to live with the Keepers of the Western door.

[hedger]

I bow my head to wisdom with great respect for Native American Nation. Thank you

[christophm]

Seeing you, grandfather makes my heart so full. Thank you for speaking the truth of our people and sharing our story.

[scarletletter]

I've been hoping someone from the Haudenosaunee would make a video recount this history. Thank you

[sonjastaes]

we need more people like this wise man

[Smokerise]

I was adopted into the Tuscarora Indian tribe yrs. Ago. The then CHIEF gave me a blessing telling me I would need this blessing later in life. Since that day the CHIEF has appeared to me in visions with messages off importance. In 5/2021 I had a tramatic fall during which time I had a great vision which included the circle dance song calling out the spirit of everything to me. From the spirit of the trees meadows the wind the streams & even horses. I thank this Chief for his wisdom then & now. I am a part of the ONANDOGA NATION. I AM THANKFUL, AND HUMBLE.

[sinadviser]

Wow, I grew up in Syracuse and never heard the full story until now. Love how he tells it here.

[arnoldzilban]

Amazing foundational story that resonates in this moment ever so profoundly.

[Odysseeus]

Powerful and beautiful. Thank you all for creating and sharing.

[thingsbeensaidanddone.]

I like the true story very much. There is a eternal battle between forces of evil and good. Some times good is difficult to find but when you do it makes life very beautiful. I like these traditional clothes a lot. The older I get more I am attracted to the spiritual world. Take care! Love Reza

[TheCWHatton]

I'm proud to say that I love Chief Lyons. Respect his contributions to his people and the game of lacrosse. Great man. Leader of great people.

[edwardnigma]

The Haudenosaunee are a beautiful people. This video makes me proud of that heritage. The keepers of the east Mohawk - Akwesasne - Wolf Clan.

[TheRadioAteMyTV]

This dude is an EXCELLENT story teller. A great listen.

[countsnowyofgwainn]

i had chills watching this. when i looked into his eyes as he told this story i felt something deep with in me. i felt like i was there, now i may not know my tribe truely. but maybe one day the spirits will tell me the name of my mother tribe. :)