For many years they stayed in place
in long wooden homes with narrow space.
Several families shared the floor,
led by mothers who kept the lore.

 

 

To guard the village from windstorms
and spot enemies from a platform,
men built with their own hands
a protective palisade where guards would stand.

 

 

They lived sedentarily,
25 nations, proud and free
Farming the land, sharing language and ways
St. Lawrence, Erie, Huron and Haudenosaunee.
 

Each clan would choose two chiefs
with different roles to achieve.
One to plan celebrations and peace.
The other to protect the territory.

 

 

Chosen by women of the community  
based on his wisdom and speaking abilities.
Or for his bravery and firm presence.
Presented to the council for acceptance.

 

They lived sedentarily,
25 nations, proud and free
Farming the land, sharing language and ways
St. Lawrence, Erie, Huron and Haudenosaunee.

 

Animals held a sacred role.
A totem guarding heart and soul.
Chosen to shield them night and day.
Their spirit guide to light the way.

To light the way…

Droits d'auteurs, compositeurs et interprètes applicables

Nathalie Chagnon  Anne Guilbault  Jean-Michel Soudre  SUNO 2026