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llaudenosaunee Grand Council position on Elected Councils Continued from page S) tributary elected councils, along with both the NCAI and USET. do not represent the Haudenosaunee or it's member nations. While the Grand Council of Chiefs feels that it must be firm on this matter. our council reminds elected councils of the Hau- denosaunee remedy to standardize governance in our communities under the Kaianere'k6:wa (Great Law of Peace). In 1991 , the Haudenosaunee Chiefs outlined its prerequi- sites to begin meaningful di- alogue on how we can all live by the principles and laws of the Kaianere'k6 :wa, within the Longhouse of the Hau- denosaunee Confederacy. At that time, Haudenosaunee Chiefs asked the elected councils to respect and rec- ognize its authority over eight political areas it histor- ically claims jurisdiction over. While we understand that at this time Canada and the United States only recognize the legitimacy of elected councils, we feel this will never change so long as our own people wilfully accept this colonial imposition. The Grand Council of Chiefs re- mains steadfast to this nec- essary show of good faith and is prepared to begin the necessary work to help decolonize the political structures in each of our communities. This issue is challenging in many ways because of the personal impact this has on individuals who have a heartfelt connection to the Haudenosaunee and wish to express it in ways that they think is helpful What is not realized is that by represent- ing the Haudenosaunee within colonial constructs it furthers the colonial agenda of Canada and United States. The elective systems are for- eign entities that are colo- nizing the culture by misappropriation. Placing our teachings. laws, and symbols within the colonial construct of the elective band council system is mor- phing decolonization into a mean- ingless apparition of cultural revitalization and transfor- mation . The Kaianere'k6:wa is based upon inclusivity, peaceful co- existence, and strength through unity bound by laws that ensure a democratic and consensual decision-making process. The Grand Council of Chiefs makes no judg- men ts of the moral character or sincerity of those individ- uals who currently serve as elected councillors. but we do encourage them to bring their gifts, skills, and dedication back into the canoe and take shelter be- neath the Great Tree of Peace. Bound together by the good tidings of peace and power, we can be stronger than ever. Da·ne'thoh. Chief Sidney Hill. Tadodah&l