Native American Heritage

Ongweoweh was founded by Frank Bonamie, an enrolled member and former Chief of the Cayuga Indian Nation of New York State. The values and principles embodied in the Native American heritage of Ongweoweh are evident in the daily business practices, namely through the integrity and respect shown for employees, manufacturers, and customers. The name “Ongweoweh” is derived from an Iroquois word, which loosely translates to “the original people.” The name “Ongweoweh” bonds the company’s identity with its origins as a Native American business and with its geographic location in traditional Cayuga homelands. Ongweoweh Corp and the Bonamie family continue to have strong ties to their native heritage and support many programs and scholarships for the advancement of Native Americans.

Using Native American Business Practices

The values and principles embodied in our Native American heritage are evident in the daily business practices of Ongweoweh Corp.  The respect we show for employees, vendors and customers manifest these ideals. While our accomplishments are something we all take pride in, we remain humble in our relations. We strive to take the high road in all disagreements.

A focus on recycling and the development of NativeTrax are strong component connections to this heritage along with the belief that doing what is best for the environment is also what is best for long term business relationships.

Business vision and decision making grounded in long term financial health and long lasting relationships with customers is reflective of the “Seventh Generation” approach of the Iroquois that guides us to consider the impacts of today’s decisions and actions on future generations.