Indigenous Nations Festival Celebrates Tradition Through Artistry

Colgate's annual Indigenous Nations Festival brought together Indigenous people from near and far, the University community, and local artisans on Oct. 25 in Sanford Field House.

Chelsea Jocko of the Oneida Nation began the day's events by giving the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address, also known as "The Words Before All Else." Speaking in the Oneida language, her words translated to: "We will thank the Creator for everything he has prepared." Jocko also gave gratitude for the waters, plants, and animals, among other things.

The keynote speech was delivered by Thomas Porter of the Mohawk Nation, who shared personal and communal stories. He often highlighted his grandmother's role in his life, including one story about her teaching him as a 4-year-old to give thanks to the Creator at the first instance of opening his eyelids to sunlight in the morning. In addition, Porter expressed his hope for there to be more peace in the world and for individuals.

"If we have all of the pieces for the greater good when the world was new, the world will have a chance to be at peace," Porter said. "That's my suggestion for everybody - to get back to their Indigenous teaching when the world was new. When we reconnect with what [gave us life], the world will be at peace."

In addition, Porter shared pieces of his community's artisanship: a necklace, a condolence cane, and a pouch for sacred tobacco.

The festival also featured performances by the Haudenosaunee Smoke Dancers and the Ayazamana Dance Group, as well as a panel with artists from the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, the Onondaga Nation, the Tuscarora Nation, and the Oneida Nation.

Vendors stationed at various tables showcased the art of student and local crafters. Janaya Skye '26 of the Oneida Nation, a molecular biology and Native American studies double major, sold her pebble art at a table with her mother, who was selling her jewelry.

"It's important that people use the gifts they've been given," Skye said. "For me, making time to do art is important, [as is] using the gifts the Creator has given us to instill good things in other people."

This is the third year Colgate has held the Indigenous Nations Festival. In prior years, it has taken place at Colgate as the Native American Arts and Culture Festival. Professor Jenna Reinbold, director of the Native American Studies Program and member of the event's organizing committee, said, "It's really important for Colgate to be involved with local communities since Colgate is located on Oneida land - and to have a regular event that highlights the Indigenous communities in this area."