Akwesasne – The Akwesasne community has experienced a horrific tragedy this past weekend in the deaths of three community members, including two small children, during a house fire. The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne sends its deepest condolences to the entire David family and all who have been affected by this unimaginable loss. We ask the community to unite and offer emotional support to those most in need, in any capacity you’re able to be. Our strengths as a caring, family-driven community will be most needed in the days ahead.
We also ask the community to join us in recognizing all of Akwesasne’s first responders who remain dedicated to helping our community members as fast as possible, even when their own lives are put at risk. Despite the borders that dissect us, Akwesasne is one community. Our Akwesasne Mohawk Police were first to respond to the fire despite being outside of their official jurisdiction. The police and volunteer firefighters go above and beyond their duties to help our community members. They are heroes among us. All of our community’s police, ambulance staff and volunteer firefighters will need the community’s emotional support this week as they experience their own personal grief.
A tragedy of this enormity ripples across the territory, affecting every household. We are all connected in some way. Akwesasne is in mourning and we ask our neighbors and the public to be mindful and respectful of this grieving period. Nia:wenhkowa for your understanding.
It is due to this period of mourning that MCA has postponed all community meetings scheduled this week. The Tsi Snaihne, Kawehno:ke and Kana:takon district meetings were scheduled to take place today, Jan. 27, and the General Meeting was scheduled for this Thursday, Jan. 30. Future dates will be announced as soon as they are available. Chief Louise Thompson will attend the Kawehno:ke Community Centre tonight, Jan. 27, at 6 p.m. should any community members attend who have not received notice of the cancellation.
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Wholistic Health and Wellness Program has counselors available to meet with any community members in need. To make an appointment, contact 613-575-2341 Ext. 3100.
it is a very sad day for our Mohawk brothers, my heart goes out to you
This is a terrible tragedy indeed and my condolenses to the family and to the Mohawk people.