[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 208 (Wednesday, December 20, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1739-E1740]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 REMEMBERING CHIEF IRVING POWLESS, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOHN KATKO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 20, 2017

  Mr. KATKO. Mr Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Onondaga 
Nation Chief Irving Powless, Jr.
  Chief Powless was born in Syracuse, the son of Chief Irving Powless, 
Sr. and Cecelia Powless, both active members within the Onondaga 
Nation. As chief of the Beaver Clan of the Onondaga Nation, Chief 
Powless, Jr. established a reputation for his quick wit, enthusiasm, 
and ability to ease stressful situations. He served as secretary of the 
Onondaga Council of Chiefs for more than 30 years and was a respected 
leader throughout Central New York. Chief Powless was an expert on 
treaty rights, and throughout his life, tirelessly advocated for the 
rights of the Onondaga Nation and the Haudenosaunee peoples.
  Chief Powless' love for his people and for their history never 
faltered over the course of his life. He was an avid historian, and 
spent time as a lecturer, author, and teacher. Beyond his role as a 
scholar, Chief Powless was

[[Page E1740]]

an avid hunter, lacrosse player, and environmental advocate. He worked 
to obtain a new health center for the Onondaga Nation School, and to 
return sacred objects from museums to the Onondaga people. He published 
several books, including, ``Who are These People Anyway?''
  It is my honor to recognize the life and legacy of this great leader 
in our community. May Chief Irving Powless, Jr. name and legacy forever 
be remembered in the Record. Rest peacefully.

                          ____________________