Political Office
We strive to create a responsive organization that supports Oneida Nation of the Thames’ community, while living our language and culture for the prosperity of current and future generations.
We strive to create a responsive organization that supports Oneida Nation of the Thames’ community, while living our language and culture for the prosperity of current and future generations.
The community elects a Chief and Councillors every two years, and they have the responsibility of ensuring that Oneida is well looked after through the provision of programs and services. They are respectful of their responsibilities to their ancestors, the present generations and the generations to come.
The Heredity Chief’s Council is still active today and they meet based upon the traditional system. Leadership is provided by Clan Mothers and the Chiefs of the three Clans – Bear, Turtle and Wolf. They keep the best interests of the nation in mind as they exercise the traditional form of governance in caring for their fellow community members.
As Onyota’a:ka we all believe that we have a responsibility to our future generations and that our ancestors watch over us. The elected leaders convene our Council meetings using the traditional medicines that the Creator has provided for us, offer an opening and closing prayer in the Onyota’a:ka language, and sit according to clans.
The elected Chief and Council strive to work with the Hereditary Chief’s Council to bring peace to the nation.
Find services below:
Oneida’s Elected Chief and Council serve two-year terms, with elections held in June. Chief and Council meet on the first Tuesday of every month. Meet our current Chief and Council.
Oneida Nation Council are the representatives elected to serve the needs of Oneida Nation of the Thames community members. Oneida Nation Council provides community leadership and political direction for Oneida Nation of the Thames, actively participating in lobbying efforts and fostering progressive relationships with the Government of Canada and Canadian business and industry.
Governance and Resolution Officer
Name: Martin Powless
Email: Pol.analyst@oneida.on.ca
Tel: 519-652-6161 x805
Cell: 226-378-0569
Supporting Oneida’s community members in resolving issues related to community supports and services.
Elections are held every 2 years at Oneida. All Oneida members over the age of 18 are encouraged to vote.
All members who hold a status card are eligible to vote. Voting takes place in person and through the mailing of ballots. With mailed-in ballots, there will be a postmark date deadline communicated.
Not sure if you are eligible to vote? Send your question to our Memberships team. Contact info can be found on the Memberships page.
Oneida Nation of the Thames is working towards a Custom Election Code and is currently looking for member feedback.
Our 2022 Annual Report is now available to download.
Oneida Political Office
2210 Elm Ave.
Southwold,
Ontario N0L 2G0
Tel: 519-652-6161
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Name: Sherry Monastyrski
Tel: 519-652-6161 x 803
Email: ceo@oneida.on.ca