Oneida Singers peform during the Upstate New York Empowerment Luncheon. Pictured are Shawnee Patterson (Wolf Clan), Madison Dickerman (Turtle Clan), Birdy Burdick (Turtle Clan), Aliyah Frederick (Turtle Clan), and Jasmine Rood (Turtle Clan).

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Onyota’a:ká: Singers Perform

Traditional Words of Welcome, Thanks Extended to Luncheon Guests

Story Created: Nov 13, 2008 at 11:23 AM EST

Story Updated: Nov 17, 2008 at 11:26 AM EST

Young Oneida Nation Members performed songs in their native Onyota’a:ká: language at the Upstate New York Empowerment Fund – Charity Check Distribution and 2008 Host Committee Recognition Luncheon Nov. 12 at the Shenandoah Clubhouse.

More than 250 people, representing 99 charities that sold tickets for the charity in relation to the Turning Stone Resort Championship, were in attendance.

Sheri Beglen (Wofl Clan), language instructor, offered a traditional welcome to the guests in Onyota’a:ká:.

The Oneida Nation is intent upon safeguarding the Onyota’a:ká: language. The children’s singing group represents an important part of this effort.

Kandice Watson (Wolf Clan), director of Education and Cultural Relations, is the coordinator of the singing group, and Birdy Burdick (Turtle Clan) is her assistant.

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