The Oneida Indian Nation seal symbolizes the unity of the three clans of the Nation – the Turtle, Wolf and Bear. The great Tree of Peace, which is the focal point of the seal, is a white pine tree. The white pine tree represents “the good mind.” Under the tree are four white roots which represent purity and are spread in all four directions of Mother Earth.
The Peacemaker instructed the nations of the Haudenosaunee to bury their weapons of war under the sacred roots of the white pine and to never unearth them again to be used against each other. If any person or nation truly is seeking the protection of peace, they are to follow the roots to their source and find shelter under the tree of peace.
The Peacemaker chose the white pine because its needles stay green forever. The green of the pine symbolizes the promise that our language, our government and our people will never die, as long as we adhere to the Great Law.
The color red represents blood shed before and after the formation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. It is to remind the Haudenosaunee that they are no longer a people of war, and instead are to promote peace and unity. The Oneidas are to give thanks for all the Creator has given, and serve as caretaker of their culture and the Creator’s land for the seventh generation to come.
The wampum belt that is located through the top of the tree represents the participating nations of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. The purple of the wampum symbolizes peace.
The three Oneida Clans are sheltered in the protection of the great tree of peace. An eagle which was originally our “national” bird, is strategically placed at the top of the tree, and is there as a watch guard. He is to scream a warning to the Oneida People of approaching threats to peace.