The Onondaga, meaning the keepers of the central fire and referred to as the People of the Hills, are a Native American people. According to their website, "Onondaga remains the meeting place for the Grand Council of Chiefs, the traditional ruling body for the Haudenosaunee. The Longhouse serves as a place of spiritual, cultural and social activities, the seat of government and symbol of security."

They speak Onondaga which is integral to all aspects of religious, government, political and social life. When they gather the Opening Ritual is performed.

They believe that a Creator gave them their way of life. As such, they value mother earth and see their responsibility to take of mother earth. "Faith Keepers", as they call them, who are both men and women are responsible for performing their ceremonies. They follow the lunar calendar to decide the dates of ceremonies.