Each function in the Odawa schemata of society was discharged by a social unit
whose members were born into the unit and especially trained. Each social unit represented one form or
aspect of public duty which was symbolized by an emblem, known as a totem. The
evidence is that the term 'dodaem' comes from the
same root as do 'dodum' and 'dodoshog'.
Dodum means to do or fulfill, while 'doodoosh, literally means breast that from which milk,
food' or sustenance is drawn. Dodaem literally means
'THAT FROM WHICH I DRAW MY PURPOSE, MEANING, AND
BEING. The totem was the most important social unit taking precedence over the community,
and the immediate family
From man's five basic individual
and social needs and endeavors emerged the framework and fabric of the Anishinaabe Society: Leadership, Protection, Sustenance, Learning,
and Physical Well Being.
Clans
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Leadership: |
Defense: |