July 30th. 2012

It's hard to comprehend that the Government of the Six Nations and the Government of the United States both came from the Great Law of Peace. Remember the traditional chiefs were chosen by the women in secret, without the men being considered even knowing who was being considered. They were chosen by who has treated his mother, sister, wife and daughters the best. Who has helped his village, friends and even strangers the most. Who has taught the children and watched over them without being asked. Who has given of his own for the sick injured and those without. Sometimes it took weeks of discussions for the women to finally choose a new chief. The law making is different to. The subject of the council was announced by the firekeeper (president or senior chief) then the person next to him spoke about what he thought should be done. It went around the circle with every person speaking and at times asking for clarification on what someone had said before. If they came to consensus within four rounds of discussion then the decision was given to the women to approve up or down. If not the subject could not be brought up again for a year. Yes it is hard to think of the savage and the civilized governments of the two nations. The Savage has only either or as a model. The civilized has peaceful and respectful discussions that result in consensus. Big Tree 7/30/2012