Iroquois Clan Structure

Each of the six nations of Haudenosaunee is comprised of extended family groups called CLANS.

A CLAN MOTHER heads each clan. In the past, a clan mother was usually the oldest woman of the clan. Today, clan mothers are chosen for their cultural wisdom and dedication to the Haudenosaunee people.

Clan mothers have been given the honor of their duties because of a woman who lived long ago called the Mother of Nations.

■ Make all the major decisions that affect the clan.

■ Assign names to people in her clan.

■ Nominate the male leader of the clan. The male leader is called the HOYANEH.

■ Help ensure that all members of her clan are fed.