Kayanerenkó:wa (Great Law of Peace)

The Kayanerenkó:wa, also known as the Great Law of Peace, is the foundational constitution of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy. It established a system of peaceful governance through consensus, emphasizing unity, shared responsibility, and respect among member nations. The law promotes acts of diplomacy and dialogue over conflict, and values the participation of women and elders in decision-making. Essentially, it is a political and spiritual framework that guides the Iroquois in maintaining harmony, fairness, and balance within their society and with others.