Our Ancient Culture
ANISHINAABE DODEMAAG
In our Anishinabe Dodem (clan) system, each clan is associated with a specific animal, and each has distinct roles and responsibilities that contribute to the overall well-being and governance of our community. The Clan system is not just about our own families, it was the foundation of our governance system. Our clans gave us purpose and gave us responsibilities and helped us maintain harmony and deal with conflicts.
Traditionally, there were seven clans based on the animals commonly found in the Nation's region. Main clans can also have numerous sub-clans of related animals or creatures. For example, the Makwa is the Bear Clan with sub-clans named Makade Makwa – Black Bear, Ozaawaa Makwa – Brown Bear and Waabishkaa Makwaa – White Bear.
Key Principles of the Clan System:
Our clan system was the foundation of how our society functioned. The system served our nation by establishing these principles:
- Balance and Harmony: The clans work together to maintain balance in the community, with each fulfilling its distinct role.
- Interdependence: Each clan relies on the others for the community's overall survival and success.
- Marital Restrictions: Traditionally, individuals cannot marry within their own clan, which helps maintain strong connections between clans.
This system reflects the Anishinaabe belief in interconnectedness and respect for all beings, with each clan mirroring the characteristics and qualities of its associated animal. At RRAN, we only have five clans as the Ojiijak Doodem – Crane Clan and Maang - Loon Clans are not present in our Nation.
The Legend of Clan Origin:
A long time ago, before the Anishinabe inhabited this world, it is said that the clans were already here. Before the Anishinabe arrived, the animals, fish and birds were told by the Creator that humans were coming and that the Anishinabe wouldn’t have anything and would be pitiful.
So each of the animals, fish and birds said, “We will take care of them and show them how to live in harmony with all of Creation. We will sacrifice ourselves as food so they won’t starve and we will supply them with our skins so they will be warm. We will teach them what medicines and ceremonies to use to heal themselves.”
Clans Present at RRAN
Maang - Loon
Mikinaak - Turtle
Maang - Loon
Role: Spiritual Leaders and Visionaries
Members are spiritual guides and visionaries. They connect the people to the spiritual world and provide insight through dreams and visions. Their role is to ensure the community maintains a spiritual balance and to offer guidance on matters of the soul and spirit.
Makwa - Bear
Mikinaak - Turtle
Maang - Loon
Role: Protectors, Guardians, and Healers
Members are protectors and healers of the people. They are often involved in medicine, law enforcement, and defense, ensuring the health and safety of the community. Their role includes physical protection and spiritual healing through knowledge of traditional medicines.
Mikinaak - Turtle
Mikinaak - Turtle
Mikinaak - Turtle
Role: Intellectuals, Advisors, and Philosophers
The Turtle Clan is known for its wisdom and knowledge. Members are responsible for advising leaders, teaching, and sharing knowledge with the community. They act as philosophers, offering guidance on ethical, spiritual, and intellectual matters.
Ginew - Bird
Waawaashkeshi - Hoof
Mikinaak - Turtle
Role: Spiritual Leaders and Visionaries
Members are spiritual guides and visionaries. They connect the people to the spiritual world and provide insight through dreams and visions. Their role is to ensure the community maintains a spiritual balance and to offer guidance on matters of the soul and spirit.
Waabizheshi - Marten
Waawaashkeshi - Hoof
Waawaashkeshi - Hoof
Role: Warriors and Strategists
Members are known for their skills in strategy, hunting, and warfare. They are the protectors of the community, defending it from threats and ensuring its survival. Their role includes physical defense but also strategic planning and resource management.
Waawaashkeshi - Hoof
Waawaashkeshi - Hoof
Waawaashkeshi - Hoof
Role: Nurturers and Caretakers
The Deer or Hoof Clan members are gentle and nurturing. They are responsible for maintaining peace and ensuring the community's well-being through caretaking roles, often focusing on social harmony and conflict resolution. They help ensure the emotional and social fabric of the community remains intact.