“all my relations”
Posted: Sun Apr 26, 2026 7:53 am
In **Oneida (Onʌyoteʔa·ká·)** there is **no single fixed ceremonial phrase** that directly equals the Lakota **“Mitákuye Oyás’iŋ”** (“all my relations”) in the same pan-cosmic way. That idea *exists*, but it’s expressed **relationally**, not as one standardized line.
That said, here are the **closest Oneida expressions / concepts** that carry overlapping meaning:
Closest linguistic equivalents
* **Ukwehu·wé**
→ *“all the people”* or *“real human beings”*
This refers to humanity as a collective, often with an implied moral and relational responsibility.
* **Yukwátshats**
→ *“our relatives / our family”*
Used more literally for kin, but can extend outward depending on context.
Closest cultural/spiritual equivalent (conceptual)
In Oneida thought, the idea behind “all my relations” is most strongly carried through:
* **Thanksgiving Address (Ohén:ton Karihwatéhkwen)** traditions
These explicitly acknowledge **people, animals, plants, waters, winds, sun, moon, and spiritual forces** as relatives — even if not summarized in one short phrase.
So instead of *declaring* “all my relations,” Oneida practice often **names and thanks each relationship**, reinforcing interconnectedness through action and speech rather than a single formula.
### Important note
Using **“Mitakuye Oyasin”** outside Lakota contexts is often discouraged. If you’re looking for an Oneida-appropriate expression, it’s best to:
* Use **Oneida language terms accurately**, or
* Refer to the **Thanksgiving Address** conceptually, rather than translating the Lakota phrase directly.
That said, here are the **closest Oneida expressions / concepts** that carry overlapping meaning:
Closest linguistic equivalents
* **Ukwehu·wé**
→ *“all the people”* or *“real human beings”*
This refers to humanity as a collective, often with an implied moral and relational responsibility.
* **Yukwátshats**
→ *“our relatives / our family”*
Used more literally for kin, but can extend outward depending on context.
Closest cultural/spiritual equivalent (conceptual)
In Oneida thought, the idea behind “all my relations” is most strongly carried through:
* **Thanksgiving Address (Ohén:ton Karihwatéhkwen)** traditions
These explicitly acknowledge **people, animals, plants, waters, winds, sun, moon, and spiritual forces** as relatives — even if not summarized in one short phrase.
So instead of *declaring* “all my relations,” Oneida practice often **names and thanks each relationship**, reinforcing interconnectedness through action and speech rather than a single formula.
### Important note
Using **“Mitakuye Oyasin”** outside Lakota contexts is often discouraged. If you’re looking for an Oneida-appropriate expression, it’s best to:
* Use **Oneida language terms accurately**, or
* Refer to the **Thanksgiving Address** conceptually, rather than translating the Lakota phrase directly.