Grand Council
The Grand Council met to discuss issues that affected the whol Iroquois Confederacy, such a peace treaties, trade agreements, and decisions to go to war. The Grand Council was made up of Hoyaneh from each of the 6 nations. Although they hardly spoke at these meetings, men and women needed to use them to make their voices heard in the decision making process.
To make a decision, the Grand Council discussed issues in a set order. All decisions had to be unanimous, meaning they always worked towards consensus. (pg 100-101, Taking Part in Our Democracy)
To make a decision, the Grand Council discussed issues in a set order. All decisions had to be unanimous, meaning they always worked towards consensus. (pg 100-101, Taking Part in Our Democracy)
How did the Grand Council make decisions?
First Step: Seneca and Mohawk (The Older Brothers) They make the first decision and then they bring that decision to the Younger Brothers.
Second Step: Cayuga and Oneida (The Younger Brothers) The decision then goes to these guys, if they agree it goes to The Keepers of the Fire, if the Younger Brothers do not agree it goes back to The Older Brothers and the process starts again.
Third Step: Onandaga (The Keepers of the Council Fire) Once at the Keepers of the Fire they then make their judgement and if all
nations have agreed the decision is carried. If it is not agreed upon it goes back to the Older Brothers and starts over again.
Second Step: Cayuga and Oneida (The Younger Brothers) The decision then goes to these guys, if they agree it goes to The Keepers of the Fire, if the Younger Brothers do not agree it goes back to The Older Brothers and the process starts again.
Third Step: Onandaga (The Keepers of the Council Fire) Once at the Keepers of the Fire they then make their judgement and if all
nations have agreed the decision is carried. If it is not agreed upon it goes back to the Older Brothers and starts over again.