The Tree of Peace took root at Herald Square as the Oneida Indian Nation debuted in the 82nd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade ®. On Thursday, November 27th, the Oneida Indian Nation’s True Spirit of Thanksgiving float rode down Broadway spreading the message of Thanksgiving to millions of spectators and appearing on television at approximately 11:15 a.m. to millions of viewers nationwide. Sharing the Oneida representation of the creation story, the float is a beautifully symbolic depiction of the legendary Nation’s birth.

Designed and built by the magicians of the Macy’s Parade Studio, The Oneida Nation presents the True Spirit of Thanksgiving float showcases the Indian Nation’s representation of the creation story with vivid characters, symbols and performers. The float depicts the tale of Sky Woman who one day came to rest on a Turtle’s back, depicted on the float by a giant Turtle symbolizing Mother Earth. A 30-foot tall White Pine Tree symbolizing the Tree of Peace grows from the turtle’s back, and climbs skyward, while its great white roots of peace spread in four directions- north, south, east and west. On top of the Great Tree is an eagle that keeps watch over the Nations, symbolizing the constant watch and protection of Peace. Along for the ride were Iroquois dancers at each root representing all Indian people from across the country.

“We are honored to have the Oneida Indian Nation participate in this year’s Parade with a majestic float that truly captures the spirit of the holiday,” says Amy Kule, producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

“The Oneida Indian Nation is honored to be included in the 82nd Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Nation Representative and Chief Executive Officer. “American Indians welcomed the first Europeans who came to our homelands in the spirit of thanksgiving, and showed our new neighbors how to adapt to the challenges of our Mother Earth. As first Americans, we are most thankful to be included in this premier holiday event because it is a wonderful opportunity to once again share the true spirit of thanksgiving with America and the millions of people watching this wonderful parade.”

About the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade With more than 50 million viewers across the country and more than 3.5 million spectators that line up along the streets of New York City each year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a national icon that has grown into a world-famous holiday event. For over 80 years, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has marked the official start of the holiday season. Growing in size and scale, the Parade proudly marches down a 2.5-mile route in New York City with over 10,000 participants in tow including Macy’s employees, their families, celebrities, athletes, clowns and dance groups spreading holiday cheer. The Parade also features America’s best marching bands, fabulous floats and Macy’s signature giant helium character balloons. For more information on the Macy’s Parade please visit www.macysparade.com or call the Parade hotline at (212) 494-4495.

About Oneida Indian Nation The Oneida Indian Nation is a federally recognized Indian nation in Central New York. A founding member of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy (also known as the Six Nations or Iroquois Confederacy), the Oneida Indian Nation sided with the Americans in the Revolutionary War and was thanked by Congress and President George Washington for its loyalty and assistance. Today, the Oneida Nation consists of about 1,000 enrolled Members, most of who still live in Central New York. The Nation’s enterprises, which employ nearly 5,000 people, include Turning Stone Resort and Casino, the SāvOn chain of gas stations and convenience stores, a 1,300-head Angus beef herd, several retail outlets, and Four Directions Media, which includes a national weekly newspaper and a 3D animation/HD cinematography production company. Proceeds from these enterprises are used to rebuild the Nation’s economic base and provide essential services, including housing, health care, and education incentives and programs, to its Members.

SEE ALSO: Oneida Nation float makes appearance in Macy’s parade (News 10 11/27)

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IMAGE: Float Rendering