Roles of Father Clan and Grandfather Clan
Roles of Father Clan and Grandfather Clan
INITIATION DRAFT — This page outlines the traditional roles of the Father Clan and Grandfather Clan within Tsm’syen society. These roles provide balance, protection, and guidance to a child throughout their life. This is a base version. It will grow as more teachings and community reflections are added.
Tsm’syen identity is matrilineal — you belong to **your mother’s clan and wilp**.
But the Father Clan and Grandfather Clan hold essential supporting roles that guide, protect, and steady a person as they grow. These roles create a system of relational accountability and balance that spans families, clans, and Houses.
---
The Father Clan — Protectors and Correctors
A child’s Father Clan holds a role of **gentle correction and guidance**.
They:
- watch over the child with care,
- teach proper behaviour,
- offer neutral correction when the home is under stress,
- provide balance when matriarchs or close relatives cannot intervene,
- act as protectors during conflict,
- and support the child through major life transitions.
The Father Clan does not discipline harshly. Their correction is meant to:
- steady,
- redirect,
- and encourage.
They are like uncles who step in when help is needed, but always with kindness.
A child should feel safe approaching their Father Clan. Their role is **protection through guidance**.
---
The Grandfather Clan — Teachers, Advisors, and Supporters
The Grandfather Clan carries a role of **deep teaching and moral grounding**.
They:
- teach history and ayaawx,
- remind the child of their responsibilities,
- help shape humility and generosity,
- guide behaviour during youth,
- support House obligations,
- and often have the authority to correct more serious misconduct.
Grandfather Clan members are respected as:
- calm voices,
- balanced teachers,
- and cultural anchors.
Their correction is not emotional — it is traditional and rooted in experience.
In the feast system, the Grandfather Clan often affirms or supports decisions made within the child’s mother’s House.
---
Balance Between the Two Clans
The Father Clan and Grandfather Clan work together to support a child’s growth.
The Father Clan:
- protects the child,
- disciplines lightly,
- keeps them safe.
The Grand