Ojibwe Doodems

Ojibwe Doodems. . , The Ojibwe look to Mother Nature for knowledge. To grasp the function of the clan system and the roles and responsibilities of each clan member, you must look at each representative clan animal in their habitats., The clans collaborate to fulfill necessary societal functions that allow for the survival, dignity and well-being of the tribal community. Working together the clans attend to the physical, intellectual, psychological and spiritual needs of the community., There were seven original clans each known by its animal totem or doodem. The animal doodem symbolizes the strength and duties of the clan. While each clan differs, all are considered equal. To meet all the needs of the nation the clans work together to achieve their goals. The clan system has built into it equal justice, voice, law and order. It reinforces the teachings and principles of a sacred way of life., Giganh , Tish Clan (Gigonh) , The people of the fish clan are the scholars and teachers. They are the intellectuals of the people. They guide the development of young people. They also draw on their knowledge to solve disputes between the leaders of the Crane and Loon Clan., The Turtle Clan (Mak Kee An Nuk) , is the head of the Fish Clan. They are responsible for teaching and healing. The turtle gives the cleansing power of change and purifies the heart., Mahng , The Loon Clan (Mahng) , are the political members of the people. Members of each clan have natural abilities and qualities of leadership., The Loon Clan are known for their gifts of beautiful singing and the art of sharing. Loon clan members are eloquent speakers and work together with the Crane clan to give the people a balanced government., Benays' , Bird Clan (Benavs) , represent the spiritual leaders of the people and give the nation its vision of well-being and highest development of the spirit., The Eagle Clan (Migizi) , is the Chief of the Bird Clan. The Eagle Clan is the visionary clan often associated with the creative arts. The Eagle Clan teaches the gift of freedom and how to dream big. They are often messengers and provide leadership in new ideas and seeing things in a new light..., Ahjijawk' , Crane Clan (Ahjjawk) , Crane clan members are known for their intelligence. They deal with the order and functioning of the clan systems in place., They are known for their powerful and eloquent speaking abilities., The Crane Clan helps put new ideas into action with the safeguarding of all the clans involved., Wawashesh'she , Deer Clan (Wawashesh'she) , People of the Hoof clan are gentle, like the deer or moose for which the clan is named. They care for others by making sure the community have proper housing and recreation., Hoof clan people are the poets and pacifists avoiding harsh words. Deer Clan members are kindhearted givers of the tribe., Muckwa , Bear Clan Muckwa) , The Bear Clan is the largest clan and represents guardianship of the tribes. Members are medicine men and war chiefs. They are protectors of the community. Members spend a lot of time patrolling the land surrounding the village. They learn which roots, barks and plants can be used to treat the ailments of the O people. Wisdom and authority are associated with the Bear Clan., Wabizhashi , Marten Clan (Wabizhashi) , People of the Marten clan are warriors, hunters and gatherers., They are master strategists in planning the defense of their people., Marten Clan members are responsible for teaching the skills needed for gathering foods and creating tools needed for the different seasons.