The Haudenosaunee Flag Raising: Cultural Symbols and Intercultural Contact
The flag has been an important cultural symbol and piece of recognition for Onkwehonwe people. This article explores the action of flag raising amongst Haudenosaunee students in various high schools within New York.
Waterman, S.J., & Arnold, P.P. (2010). The Haudenosaunee Flag Raising: Cultural Symbols and Intercultural Contact. Journal of American Indian Education, 49(1/2), 125-144.
Document analysis of existing texts of Native student’s experiences
Participant observation during flag raising
In this article, Waterman and Arnold discuss and look at actions of flag raising amongst Haudenosaunee students in various high schools within New York. This article explores the background on the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and how the flag has been an important cultural symbol and piece of recognition for Onkwehonwe people. The research investigates what the flag might mean for Indigenous students as an important piece of recognition and a connection to identity and culture. In addition to this, the research investigates what this action of flag raising might mean for restoring and renewing settler and Indigenous relationships.
Haudenosaunee values, customs, traditions
Guswenta two-row wampum teachings and principles
Teachings and ethics around non-interference and working in good relations
Action of raising the flag, visibility and recognition of Indigenous students and peoples
Renewal and revitalizing original agreements between settlers and Indigenous nations
Cultural resurgence
Operating within a Haudenosaunee lens to design and lead research
Flag raising created by the students
Symbol making and design for flag guided by Haudenosaunee values and worldviews
Self-voicing from students around cultural pride and a sense of identity
Engagement with students around learning the original agreements
Providing Indigenous learners with an environment to be recognized and thrive
Utilizing a cultural framework in Indigenous research
"The media's portrayal of the flag raising as a divisive, conflicted event perpetuated stereotypes and dominant oppressive" (p. 135)
"The students who created the logo expressed a sophisticated understanding of their worldview and their place in it. This wisdom displayed in the logo - the students' awareness of the complexities and nuances of two worldviews, an awareness many adults in the dominant society lack - represents a competency not valued in U.S. schools" (p. 139).
Indigenous Education
Indigenous Studies