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.

Traditional Lacrosse

© 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.

Mohawk & Akwesasne Basketmaking

You will find stunning, intricate Mohawk baskets throughout Akwesasne. These hand-woven creations adorn shelves and decorate office buildings all over the Akwesasne nation.

We are said to have the highest number of basket makers in any one community among the Iroquois Confederacy. Just ask someone you meet if they make baskets or if a relative does and they will likely answer yes.