A River Community Unlike Any Other
The people of Akwesasne have maintained a special connection to the St. Lawrence River for countless generations, relying on it for sustenance, protection, transportation, inspiration, and recreation.
Cultural Revitalization
After centuries of cultural oppression and genocide, which left lasting marks on generations to come, many Native Peoples have embraced their cultures and languages. This embrace, especially by the youth, has spurred a remarkable cultural revitalization, which is alive and well in Akwesasne.
Akwesasne Culture and Traditions
Akwesasne Mohawk people are part of the Haudenosaunee, which means the “people of the longhouse.” The Haudenosaunee are often referred to as the Six Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy.
Thanksgiving Address
“We who have gathered together are responsible that our cycle continues. We have been given the duty to live in harmony with one another and other living things.”
These are the opening words of the Ohenten Kariwatekwen, also known as the Thanksgiving Address.
Akwesasne Military Service and Veterans
The Akwesasne Mohawk community has had a long history of military service. For hundreds of years, this thriving Mohawk nation and its people have made the sacrifice of their sons and daughters to ensure peace and safety in the USA and Canada.
Akwesasne: Important Terms & Explanations
The Akwesasr:onon, people of Akwesasne, and our community are vibrant and unique with a rich history spanning centuries. There are many ways in which Akwesasne and our people are described and the use of certain terms varies depending on the topic, perspectives, and individual preferences.
When The Maple Sap Flows
In the spring, you can often spot white smoke billowing out of homes around Akwesasne. This is when wah:ta oh:ses (maple sap) flows and it’s to make maple syrup. The spring season is here and it is a time to celebrate. These billows of white smoke mark where residential sugar shacks are beginning to process the maple sap they have been collecting since early March.
Living Off The Land
For centuries Mohawks have lived in harmony with mother nature and lived off the land. We were hunters, gatherers, trappers, fishermen, and farmers.
According to the Akwesasne Cultural Portrait, “The Mohawk people have always known that they are to only take what they need from Mother Earth, including plants and wildlife.”
Traditional Lacrosse
You might be a fan of lacrosse or even a lacrosse player, but do you know where lacrosse came from?
Lacrosse is actually an ancient sport first practiced by Indigenous tribes in North America. To the Haudenosaunee, the game is a gift from the Creator, a medicine game for men used for healing and to lift the spirits of the people.
COVID-19 Inspires Akwesasne Artists
The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought a lot of changes in its wake, but it has also inspired some creativity and ingenuity. Local artisans draw on their culture and traditional knowledge to create masks that are truly works of art that raise awareness of Indigenous communities and share messages of resiliency.
