to host White Pine Tree Ceremony
Oct. 17 ceremony to celebrate peace and friendship between the University and the Haudenosaunee Confederacy
On Friday, Oct. 17, ’s Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Native American and Indigenous Studies Working Group, in partnership with the local Haudenosaunee leadership community, will host the inaugural White Pine Tree Ceremony at noon on the Peace Quad.
The white pine has long been a symbol of peace and unity, dating back to the establishment of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy in the 15th century. In 1775, the Continental Congress drew upon this symbolism when it issued an agreement of peace and friendship between the Haudenosaunee and the 13 colonies seeking independence from Great Britain.
Traditionally, ceremonies involve planting a new tree; however, this year’s ceremony will use an existing white pine on the University campus. This ceremony will create a physical and spiritual space representing peace, friendship and the alliance between the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, specifically the Onondaga Nation, and the University.
“In addition to honoring this coalition,” Assistant Director of Native American and Indigenous Student Initiatives and Oneida Turtle Clan member Tonya Shenandoah said, “the goal is to foster environments where Native American and Indigenous students can feel a sense of acknowledgment, community and belonging.”
Spiritual leader and member of the Bear Clan of the Mohawk Nation of Akwesasne Tom Porter, also known as Sakokwenionkwas — translated as “the one who wins” — will provide the ceremony oration, and several members of the University community will provide remarks, including Karen Jones, vice president of the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Leonel Diaz, director of Intercultural Affairs; and BrieAnn Langlie, associate professor of anthropology.
The White Pine Tree Ceremony begins at noon and is open to the public. It will be followed by a reception in the University Union Fireplace Lounge, featuring samples of traditional Native American and Haudenosaunee food.
For more information, contact event organizer Tonya Shenandoah at tshenandoah@binghamton.edu.
The organizers would like to thank event sponsors, including Art Museum, Interfaith Council, Center for Civic Engagement, Department of Anthropology, Environmental Studies Program and Institute for Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention.