Who Are These People Anyway?

Irving Powless Jr. has been a chief of the Beaver Clan of the Onondaga Nation since 1964. An historian, statesman, actor, musician, and veteran, he has lectured about Indigenous culture and sovereignty, and has been a key spokesperson for the Haudenosaunee nations. Lesley Forrester is the editor of And Grandma Said . . . Iroquois Teachings: as passed down through the oral tradition.

In this fascinating book, Powless writes of his experiences living for over eighty years on traditional Onondaga territory. He tells of the teachings passed down through generations and shares traditional knowledge of environmental challenges and sustainability. This book not only provides a better understanding of the Onondaga people, it creates a bridge between the Onondaga and non-Onondaga communities and promises to enhance knowledge of the historical and contemporary issues concerning both communities.""—Brian Rice, associate professor of education, University of Winnipeg""The narrative of Chief Powless provides unique insights into contemporary Haudenosaunee life from one of the most respected Native leaders of our time. His book is entertaining, informative, and essential if one is to know who we are.""—Doug George-Kanentiio, Akwesasne Mohawk and author of Iroquois on Fire""Chief Irving Powless Jr. is one of the most eloquent and earth-based speakers I have ever known. It is with great honor I recommend this book, which takes you through his life with stories and belief systems of the Iroquois. A must read!""—Joanne Shenandoah, PhD, Oneida Iroquois