Ganienkeh and the escape from Band Council control

AKWESASNE – Kanasaraken (aka Loran Thompson) speaks about the problems affecting his community in Akwesasne, and the problems that traditional Onkwehon:we people are facing at the hands of the colonial Band/Tribal Councils. In discussing possible ways forward, Kanasaraken stresses the need to participate “where my culture and my law is in effect and being lived by.” One bright spot that Kanasaraken points to is the “perfect example” proven by the Mohawk Community at Ganienkeh which has “everything they need to be independent.” He gives a brief overview of the origins of Ganienkeh and the kind of thinking that governs the community. The last topic covered is an upcoming presentation on the Women’s Nomination belt that is used in the process of condoling clan mothers.