Oren R. Lyons is a distinguished member of the Onondaga Nation and serves as the Faithkeeper of the Turtle Clan within the Iroquois Confederacy, also known as the Six Nations. Born in 1930, Oren Lyons was raised in the traditions of the Iroquois on the Seneca and Onondaga reservations in northern New York. His academic journey led him to Syracuse University, where he graduated in 1958 from the College of Fine Arts. Before dedicating his life to advocacy and academic roles, Lyons was a commercial artist in New York City, becoming the art and planning director at Norcross Greeting Cards. His artwork, deeply influenced by his indigenous heritage, has been widely exhibited across the United States.

In 1970, Oren Lyons returned to Onondaga and became a vital voice for American Indian rights and environmental advocacy. He has been active on the international stage, notably contributing to the United Nations Human Rights Commission in Geneva, and helping to establish the Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982. His efforts extend to serving on the Executive Committee of the Global Forum of Spiritual and Parliamentary Leaders on Human Survival and participating as a principal in the Traditional Circle of Indian Elders. His work has made him a respected speaker on topics including Native American traditions, law, and history, human rights, and interfaith dialogue.

Oren Lyons's contributions are also significant in the realm of sports, particularly lacrosse, which is a game of significant cultural importance to the Iroquois. He was an All-American lacrosse player during his time at Syracuse University, contributing to an undefeated season. He has served as the Honorary Chairman of the Iroquois Nationals Lacrosse Team. Beyond sports, Lyons is a celebrated academic, holding a professorship in American Studies at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he also directs the Native American Studies Program. His literary contributions include several books focused on Native American rights and history, further establishing him as a pivotal figure in both indigenous and academic spheres.