Yakoyaner

The Yakoyaner (also spelt iakoiane) is a Kanien'kehá:ka (Mohawk) term for the Haudenosaunee clan mother. The Yakoyaner are typically senior women responsible for overseeing the clan's political, economic, and social stability. The Yakoyaner, also known as a clan mother, holds weight over their community and family and aids in guiding the clan's chief in matters of governance, diplomacy, and community affairs.