Great Council
The Ongwanonhsioni held three main types of councils, though a single council could serve a combination of purposes. Mourning councils were convened to commemorate the death of a sachem, or council member, and to "raise up," or invest, a new member. Civil councils focused on relations with Indian nations outside the federation or with Europeans. They also provided a forum for discussions of issues involving the entire federation. Religious councils were held for the presentation of religious ceremonies.
All questions before the council were decided by a "yes" or "no" vote, and all decisions required unanimous agreement. The sachems of each nation always voted as a bloc. Their vote was determined in caucuses held by each nation.