The Oneida Nation Returns to NYC with ‘The True Spirit of Thanksgiving’

(Nov. 26, 2009) “The True Spirit of Thanksgiving” returns to New York City Thursday, Nov. 26, in the 83rd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The float, brought to the parade by the Oneida Indian Nation, features a 30-foot-tall White Pine “Tree of Peace” growing from the back of Turtle Island, spreading the message of Peace and Thanksgiving to more than 3.5 million New York City spectators and over 50 million viewers nationwide.

Sharing the Oneida representation of the creation story, the float, featuring Iroquois dancers and Oneida members dressed in traditional regalia, is a symbolic depiction of the legendary Nation’s birth.

The 83rd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade steps off on Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009 and is broadcast live nationally on NBC-TV, from 9am to 12pm in all time zones for those watching the parade on TV.

For spectator information, visit www.macysparade.com.

About the Oneida Float

Designed and built by the magicians of the Macy’s Parade Studio, the Oneida Nation presents the “True Spirit of Thanksgiving” float will showcase the Indian Nation’s representation of the creation story with vivid characters, symbols and performers. The float will depict 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 roots, symbolizing the constant watch and protection of Peace. Along for the ride will be Iroquois dancers at each root representing all Indian people from across the country.

The Oneida Nation Returns to NYC with ‘The True Spirit of Thanksgiving’

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