TRADITIONAL GOVERNANCE
Doodemaag (clan) System
Anishinaabe traditional governance operates by way of the Doodemaag (Clan) System. There are seven clans. The structure of the Doodemaag Clan System of Government is the arrangement of the Doodemaag – the clans in the Anishinaabe Circle Lodge. When people form the circle for Grand Councils or other gatherings, they enter through the Eastern Doorway (yellow side) then move in a clockwise direction to sit in their clan’s position. Clans are arranged in the circle from the Eastern Doorway in this order. 1. Waawaashkesh (Deer) Clan. 2. Migizii (Eagle) Clan. 3. Ajijaak (Crane) Clan. 4. Mshiikenh (Turtle) Clan. 5. Maang (Loon) Clan. 6. Mukwaa (Bear) Clan. 7. Waabizheshii (Marten) Clan.
DOoDEMAAG (CLAN) RESPONSIBILITIES
The Doodemaag (Clan) System is the traditional form of governance. Every clan has its own roles and responsibilities that relate to the greater good of the entire community. Each clan’s members share common personality traits and specific purpose within the Doodemaag (Clan) System of Traditional Governance.
7-POINTED STAR DECISION-MAKING PROCESS
Traditional Anishinaabe decision-making involves consultation with all the seven clans. Upon entrance through the Eastern Doorway and into the circle of clans, the path of decision-making starts with the Waawaashkesh (Deer) Clan (1), then in sequence to the Maang (Loon) Clan (2), Migizii (Eagle) Clan (3), Mukwaa (Bear) Clan (4), Ajijaak (Crane) Clan (5), Waabizheshii (Marten) Clan (6), and finally the Mshiikenh (Turtle) Clan (7).
