Traditional governance and Indigenous corn: Picking back up our Yukwanuhsyu·ní roles and responsibilities

Two Oneida Nation citizens and Ohe·láku (among the cornstalks) members use Indigenous theory and methodology to examine how growing and caring for heirloom corn provided reconnection with their traditional governing system, a traditional system that goes hand in hand with providing sustenance for their Nation. This experience facilitated the understanding and necessity of the function of participatory governing systems, and the impact on roles and responsibilities as Oneida people. Applying theory to practice, this article proposes implementation of this traditional model for Ohe·láku with hopes of encouraging the Oneida Nation government to transition back to reclaim this traditional governing system.