THE MOHAWK COUNCIL OF AKWESASNE NEWSLETTER VolumeONKWE’TA:KE 9 Issue 8 FREE ISSUE Seskéha/August 2020

PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETING HELD FOR IN THIS DEMOLITION OF OLD ADMIN 2 BUILDING ISSUE: MCA SENDS NOTICE TO RCMP AND SUCRETE DU QUEBEC

MCA ISSUES FIRST RETAIL CANNABIS BUSINESSES LICENSES

DTS UPDATES

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REPORT The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Department of Infrastructure & Housing (DIH), along with Public Works AND UPDATES and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), hosted a public consultation Zoom meeting to inform and engage the community on the upcoming demolition of the former Administration 2 building at 92 Third Street, Kana:takon (St. Regis). The building was the former location of Mohawk Government and offi ces of the chiefs. MCA GARBAGE It was vacated in 2014 due to poor air quality and building conditions. PICKUP FOR DISTRICT RESIDENTS The MCA is working to restart meetings, including the monthly General Meetings, by utilizing different avenues of information-sharing, such as ZOOM, to help ensure that our community stays informed and up-to-date. ONLY

CHILDREN’S PAGE UPCOMING MCA MEETINGS & SPECIAL DATES:

August General Meeting A Zoom General Meeting will be held on August 27, 2020.

Please send an email to [email protected] to receive a link.

You can also send any questions you may have to [email protected] as well. MOHAWK COUNCIL WAT’KWANONHWERA:TON/GREETINGS OF AKWESASNE 2018-2021 She:kon/Wat’kwanonhwera:ton, Grand Chief Abram Benedict The MCA Communications Team is proud to bring you a new issue of our print Kana:takon District newsletter, Onkwe’ta:ke. The name Onkwe’ta:ke means “For the people” and the Chief Theresa Jacobs newsletter is our way of reporting MCA news and information to those we are Chief Darryl Lazore Chief Julie Phillips-Jacobs serving…you, the people. MCA prides itself on transparency and accountability, Chief Tim Thompson and the news and reports in the pages to follow are MCA’s attempt to ensure you Kawehno:ke District receive informative and helpful news. Chief Carolyn Francis Chief Edward Roundpoint Chief Vince Thompson Chief Vanessa Adams There is always a lot to learn about Council and the MCA departments, so we hope you fi nd the newsletter both interesting and useful. We look forward to sharing our Tsi Snaihne District Chief April Adams-Phillips most valuable news with you in this format, and welcome you to provide feedback Chief Connie Lazore Chief Joe Lazore or suggestions by emailing our team at [email protected]. Chief Tobi Mitchell

Administration Heather Phillips Executive Director Daryl Seymour A/Director, Department of Infrastructure & Housing Joyce King Director, Akwesasne Justice Department Heather Phillips A/Director, Department of Community and Social Services Keith Leclaire Director, Department of Health Donna Lahache Director, Ahkwesahsne Mohawk Board of Education Shawn Dulude Chief of Police, Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service Kylee Tarbell A/Director, Tehotiiennawakon

Page 2 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 NEWS

MCA SENDS NOTICE TO RCMP AND SURETE DU QUEBEC

In response to community com- at hand is why the RCMP appears to be unwelcome policing in Akwesasne plaints over several concerning in- overly enthusiastic about maintaining territory and only intervene if they stances of outside agencies policing a presence in Akwesasne’s territorial are invited to do so. in Akwesasne, the Mohawk Council waters when they are not needed of Akwesasne submitted notice in and their presence has not been In a response dated July 15, 2020 writing to both the Royal Canadian requested. The Akwesasne Mohawk RCMP confi rmed their intentions Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Police Service (AMPS) continues to to work mutually and respectfully, Surete du Quebec to remind them of be the community police service and outlined recent efforts to build the proper protocols. The capabili- responsible for the safety and positive relations. One measure ties of the community’s own police security of the community of is a training program the RCMP is department – the Akwesasne Mo- Akwesasne under the jurisdiction of offering to AMPS offi cers on marine hawk Police Service – was highlight- the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. vessel patrol which will enhance the ed as well as the long history of po- Akwesasne is our territory and we capacity of AMPS to patrol the rivers. lice issues our community members have jurisdiction here.” have experienced. “Once the AMPS members have “AKWESASNE IS OUR received their vessel operator In the letter to the RCMP dated TERRITORY AND WE training, they (AMPS) will be independently conducting the June 29, 2020, Grand Chief Abram HAVE JURISDICTION Benedict wrote, “As the federally majority of the patrols in that area with recognized local government, the HERE.” the assistance of the Cornwall RCMP MCA takes the position that AMPS marine members when required,” is the police force responsible Similar messaging was included in a the RCMP wrote. The RCMP is also to patrol our waters and we are July 20, 2020 letter to the Surete du in the process of updating previous committed to strengthening border Quebec (SQ), in which Grand Chief Memorandums of Understanding to security and addressing threats. Benedict wrote, “It would be most refl ect joint patrols with AMPS on We take the concerns raised by benefi cial for the SQ to maintain board. our community about outside law their role of being willing and able enforcement agencies patrolling to provide assistance to AMPS, only The RCMP continued, “We our waters seriously. It would be upon request, and to cease entering completely agree that AMPS is and most benefi cial for Canada to assist our territory under any other will continue to be the community Akwesasne, rather than dictate to us circumstance.” police service responsible for the or to our community members. We safety and security of the community cannot assume that our community In response, both the RCMP and SQ of Akwesasne.” members would passively accept the agreed to support the Akwesasne imposition of an outside enforcement Mohawk Police. Should community members have agency attempting to enforce laws additional concerns or questions, on our territory without jurisdiction.” The SQ’s response, dated July 23, please contact the Mohawk The letter continued, “The larger issue 2020, stated that the SQ will cease Government Offi ce at 613-575-2348.

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 3 NEWS

SAINT REGIS MOHAWK TRIBE & MOHAWK COUNCIL OF AKWESASNE REPORT TWO NEW COVID-19 CASES TODAY (JULY 27, 2020) The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and as a priority. The coronavirus is all virus at bay. We ask that you follow Mohawk Council of Akwesasne are around us however, protecting all the preventive measures being confi rming two (2) new positive and keeping our community safe recommended by both Emergency cases of COVID-19 in the Akwesasne from the virus begins with your Operation Centers. community. The two cases are own personal actions. You are the being reported by the Tribe’s frontline in our community’s fi ght As a reminder, we ask that these Health Services and are in addition to prevent the further spread of situations not be used to judge, to the eight (8) cases announced COVID-19 in Akwesasne. mistreat or slander any person last week. The new cases make a or family. We strongly advise the cumulative total of ten (10) active “ WE ASK THAT community to come together cases reported since Monday, THESE SITUATIONS and show compassion for those July 20th and fourteen (14) total who are ill or infected, and to NOT BE USED TO cases reported in Akwesasne unite in our strategy to keep the since the start of the Coronavirus JUDGE, MISTREAT COVID-19 virus at bay. We ask pandemic, with four (4) resolved. OR SLANDER ANY that you follow all the preventive measures being recommended Following contact tracing, it PERSON OR FAMILY.” by both Emergency Operation has been determined these two Centers. new cases are not related to the As a reminder, we ask that these cluster from last week and were situations not be used to judge, If you have a non-medical emergency not contracted in the community. mistreat, or slander any person matter or require essential No further information is being or family. We strongly advise the items, please call the Tribe’s provided to protect patient privacy. community to come together and Emergency Operations Center We are strongly encouraging show compassion for those who at (518) 320-0019 or MCA’s EOC at community members to place the are ill or infected, and to unite in (613) 575-5005 or (613) 575-2331. health and safety of our community our strategy to keep the COVID-19 We are all in this together.

Page 4 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 NEWS

MCA ISSUES FIRST RETAIL CANNABIS BUSINESSES LICENSES

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne The licensed cannabis businesses application process in accordance has offi cially licensed the fi rst are: with their community’s interest businesses in the community to • Green Chief Naturals, located in having a regulated cannabis enter the recreational cannabis at 341 Island Road, Kawehno:ke industry. Any other cannabis industry. Two retailers and one (Cornwall Island). businesses operating in the territory cultivator have been licensed in • Island Flower, located at 155 are unlicensed, unregulated and compliance with the Akwesasne Akwesasne International Road, Unit there can be no assurances of their Interim Cannabis Regulation and #5, Kawehno:ke (Cornwall Island). safety or legitimacy. thorough application process. • Bright Sky Growers, located on Kawehno:ke (Cornwall Island) - These licensed businesses have “We have received several Cultivator also entered into community applications for licensing throughout contribution agreements which will the past year and we appreciate “ MANY BUSINESSES provide benefi ts to the community our business community’s patience HAVE WORKED HARD at large, which unlicensed cannabis as our staff worked to develop the businesses do not contribute to. TO ENSURE THEIR required processes for safety and accountability,” said Grand Chief OPERATION MEETS Recreational cannabis was legalized Abram Benedict. “We know that THE REQUIREMENTS in Canada in October, 2018. many businesses have worked hard Through a public survey and formal to ensure their operation meets the FOR HEALTH AND agenda item at the May 2018 MCA requirements for health and safety SAFETY, WHICH WAS General Meeting, Council accepted which was our fi rst and foremost direction from the community that priority. Additional licensing will OUR FIRST PRIORITY.” a regulated cannabis industry was continue and we support the growth necessary to protect the health of our economy, addition of jobs, MCA wishes to acknowledge that and safety of Akwesasne. In order and infl ux of outside dollars that will these businesses abided by the to circumvent risks associated with help businesses thrive.” necessary requirements and lengthy an unregulated continued on page 6

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 5 NEWS

MCA ISSUES FIRST RETAIL CANNABIS BUSINESSES LICENSES (CON’T)

continued from page 5 indicates the criteria for cultivating, Council of Akwesasne. cannabis industry, MCA adopted selling and transporting recreational the Akwesasne Interim Cannabis cannabis. The regulations stipulate, The community is encouraged to Regulation on October 17, 2018. in part, that: review the full Akwesasne Interim The regulation provides a formal • No person under 18 is permitted Cannabis Regulation and ensure process for cannabis oversight while to possess cannabis. that any cannabis-related activity is an offi cial law can be developed • Cannabis must be purchased from conducted in accordance with the through the community’s Akwesasne a licensed dispensary. stipulations of this regulation. Legislative Enactment Regulation • Cannabis may only be transported process. The cannabis law continues to Tsi Snaihne and Kana:takon by Applications for cannabis licenses to be in development. watercraft, utilizing an approved continue to be accepted and route. processed. Please contact the The Akwesasne Interim Canna- • Any person who wishes to produce, Economic Development offi ce at bis Regulation, which can be read sell or distribute cannabis must be 613-575-2250 Ext. 1805 for more at http://www.akwesasne.ca/ licensed to do so by the Mohawk information.

RECREATION CENTRES & FIELDS REMAIN CLOSED The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne mit re-opening plans to MCA for such as soccer or softball, and is informing the community that approval. The executive director, splash pads. Should the recreation the district recreation centres and along with the health department committees wish to open parts of their fi elds remain closed due to and emergency measures staff, will their outdoor facilities that are low- COVID-19. review re-opening plans with the contact, they can make plans to do community’s health and safety as a so in compliance with health and While Ontario has allowed for some top priority. safety requirements. re-opening of outdoor, low-contact recreation areas, the Tsi Snaihne, The recreation centre closures Please keep Akwesasne safe, Kana:takon and Kawehno:ke recre- apply to all activities, indoors and practice social distancing and ation centres all remain closed until outdoors, and applies to any use limit opportunities for COVID-19 such time as the committees sub- of play structures, athletic fi elds transmission.

Page 6 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 NEWS

URGENT REMINDER: SOCIAL DISTANCING AND PRECAUTIONS REMAIN NECESSARY TO KEEP AKWESASNE SAFE FROM COVID-19 The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and Saint Regis exchange the virus, including outdoors. Wash your Mohawk Tribe are urging the community to continue hands frequently and immediately after touching practicing social distancing to avoid the spread of surfaces or objects that could be contaminated. COVID-19 in Akwesasne. No one is immune to the • Parties, boating, beaching, and funerals are not an possibility of being infected and spreading the virus to exception to the risk of spreading COVID-19. Do not others. let your guard down for these activities. • Any travel outside the territory should be for essential The recent cases of COVID-19 in our community are an purposes. MCA continues to advise of a 50-mile radius urgent call to all of us to be on alert and to continue travel limit in all directions, and the SRMT continues taking extreme measures to avoid tragedy. to advise of a 50-mile radius travel limit north of the border, and a 100-mile radius travel limit for southern The following practices are vital to stop the spread of travel. the COVID-19 virus to our community members. • If you may have been exposed to the virus, testing is • Refrain from gatherings of more than ten people, and critical along with a 14-day quarantine. keep 6-feet/2-metres of distance from anyone outside your household. COVID-19 continues to be a constant threat and we • Wear a mask in any situation where you might must all work together to keep Akwesasne safe.

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 7 NEWS

50-MILE TRAVEL RESTRICTION CONTINUES IN NORTHERN PORTION OF AKWESASNE The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Unit, Akwesasne has maintained between the hours of 11:00 p.m. is informing community members restrictions above and beyond and 5:00 a.m. Only essential that the 50-mile travel restriction those recommendations for the service workers will be exempted will continue to be in effect in the health and safety of our community, from this restriction. northern portion of Akwesasne. especially our most vulnerable. 2. Activities at all other times are With regions in reopening stages, limited to essential activities. we will need to continue to err on 3. When engaged in essential the side of caution to ensure our activities in public, best efforts community remains safe. Montreal must be made to maintain a continues to see an increase physical distance of 6 feet from in positive cases of COVID 19. any other individual. Quebec has taken a reopening 4. Social gatherings are to be approach similar to US cities, avoided. which have resulted in a spike in 5. Residents who are returning to new cases. Akwesasne from any location outside the 50-mile radius, Knowing that most cases in our Here is a map that outlines the 50 Mile/80 who are displaying COVID-19 Kilometer travel restrictions implemented by community have been related to elected leadership from the Mohawk Council of symptoms, must self-isolate for travel outside of Akwesasne, we Akwesasne and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe. at least 14 days. are proceeding with caution and 6. Residents who are returning to will continue to reassess weekly. We On April 13, 2020, the Mohawk Akwesasne from any location are trying to learn from others and Council of Akwesasne passed outside the 50-mile radius, who ensure that the health and safety of MCR 2020/21 – #003 to enact the have no COVID-19 symptoms, all Akwesasronon is our top priority. Akwesasne Emergency Curfew Law. must self-quarantine for at We will continue to monitor the The Akwesasne Emergency Curfew least 14 days and monitor for situation and reassess our measures Law was enacted as a health and symptoms. when possible. safety measure in our fi ght against 7. For monitoring and tracking the spread of COVID-19 and purposes, residents returning We strongly urge Akwesasronon to serves to provide clear directives to Akwesasne from outside take precautions to avoid the spread to our community members on the 50-mile radius must inform of the virus within our community. the following emergency measures the MCA Department of While we receive direction and which are in place: Health of their circumstances, guidance from health authorities 1. All residents of Akwesasne shall as to whether they are such as the Eastern Ontario Health remain at their place of residence isolating or quarantining. “ WE STRONGLY URGE AKWESASRONON TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID THE SPREAD OF THE VIRUS WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY.”

Page 8 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 NEWS

MCA GARBAGE PICKUP FOR DISTRICT RESIDENTS ONLY

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne has received a place the bags out to the curb on Tuesdays for the number of formal complaints regarding non-district SRMT weekly pickup by Tribal staff who gather the members disposing of their household trash on the bags with their collection vehicle. Northern portion of the Akwesasne. MCA currently pays for all trash disposal services for its residents, and does not rely on external funding sources for this service. Garbage collection services is now costing the community approximately a half-million dollars per year. As unwanted/unwarranted trash is added, it causes the cost of these services to escalate. Please note that MCA garbage pickup is for district residents only.

If you do not currently reside in northern Akwesasne in one of the three districts, please refrain from disposing garbage at any household or MCA public facility.

For Akwesasronon that reside under the jurisdiction of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, garbage pickup is available through their Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) program, better known as the “Blue Bag Program.” Residents can pre-purchase 30-gallon bags and then

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 9 NEWS

COMMUNITY MEMBERS MUST FOLLOW RESPECT IN THE WORKPLACE POLICY WHEN VISITING MCA BULDINGS The MCA currently has the Respect • Unwanted or hostile physically ical injury. in the Workplace Policy in place aggressive behaviour such as as- and would like to kindly remind the sault, hitting, kicking, spitting, 7.0 Risk Assessment (lengthy section community as we re-open to the shaking a fi st at someone, fi n- will only extract what applies to a public during the pandemic that ger-pointing, shoving, standing community member as a reminder) section 6 and 7 of the policy applies excessively close to someone in to the community also. an aggressive manner, punching, 7.0 8. If an employee believes that throwing objects, property dam- someone who is not an employee RITWP 6.0 Violence: Workplace vio- age and fi ghting; of the MCA (e.g. a community lence is any action, threat, gesture member, client supplier, consultant, or conduct by a person towards an council member, etc.) has harassed employee in the workplace that can or discriminated against an be reasonably expected to cause employee, the harassment should harm, injury or illness to another. It be reported in writing to the also includes any form of domes- immediate supervisor. Every effort tic violence that an employee may will be made to address the issue experience in the workplace. It is and prevent further problems from a crime to assault another person arising. and the appropriate law enforce- ment will be contacted. There may Consequences of Violating this be instances of violence that oc- Policy: 7.0 8. specifi c cur in the workplace that require a Community members who are in designated employee or employees violation of this policy could have to contact the Akwesasne Mohawk • Verbal or written threats; services temporarily suspended until Police Service (AMPS) immediately • Any action which a reasonable the violation has been addressed (i.E. without consultation with the person would believe would and remedied. HR Manager or the Executive Direc- cause injury, harm or endanger tor). the safety of themselves or oth- External contractors, suppliers ers; or service providers who are in Workplace violence includes, but • Wielding a weapon at work; violation of this Policy could result is not limited to: • Bringing a weapon to work; in termination of the contract for • Disruptive behaviour and acts of • Stalking; or services. aggression that are inappropri- • Statement(s) or behaviours that ate in the workplace, such a s are reasonable for an employee We are respectfully asking everyone swearing yelling, vandalism, sab- to interpret as a threat to exer- to be kind and patient as we resume otage, theft and anger-related cise physical force against the full operations during this pandem- incidents; employee that could cause phys- ic. Niawenhko:wa.

Page 10 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 ENTEWATATHÁ:WI - “WE WILL GOVERN”

ENTEWATATHÁ:WI AND COVID-19

The Entewatathá:wi members have continued working conducted during this time from March 24 to July 13 from home these past few months during this pandemic with Entewatatha:wi staff, Legal Counsel and Assistant and returned to our offi ces on June 29, 2020. We have Executive Director participating. been using new technology (ZOOM and SKYPE) to 9 Legal Technical Review ZOOM meetings with Cana- connect ourselves, our lawyer and Canada’s offi cials as da Justice Lawyer and Crown - Indigenous Relations, we do a legal technical review of the Entewatatha:wi Self Northern Affairs Canada Policy Advisor and our Internal Government Agreement. It was a learning experience Legal Technical Review team to review the chapters of as we adapted to this new working environment the ESGA up to Chapter 18 of the agreement. respecting the protocols of hosting video conferences. We are thankful to the abilities of Cheavee Willie who Specialized meetings was able to skillfully deliver and upload documents for Hosting additional specifi c topic meetings provide the effi cient meetings. The meetings was able to keep the background and information gathering for negotiations. momentum of the Entewatathá:wi Self Government 1 meeting with the Offi ce of Vital Statists Agreement (ESGA) progressing. 1 meeting Self-Government Fiscal Relations 3 meetings regarding Land Code Since February Entewatatha:wi members hosted the 2 meetings regarding Akwesasne Governance Code following meeting: Negotiations Meetings Staff 5 - Internal Negotiation Preparation Meetings - February 14 Staff meetings with video streaming was the 2020 most effi cient way to deliver updates on COVID-19 1 Akwesasne/Canada Self Government Negotiation regarding the impact on Akwesasne and the Emergency meeting with in February. The Self Government Procedures. negotiations were then placed on suspension due to COVID-19 Other topics covered in our staff meetings were updates and discussions on the individual work being Legal Technical Review done for the Internal Technical Reviews and Community This is the process of reviewing the ESGA from a legal Communication Strategy. point of view prior to the formal negotiations to correct grammar, formatting and clarity with respect to existing During this time we welcomed Joanna Jesmer as the laws. There continues to be a tremendous amount of Research Writer, who conducts research and review on work to bring the ESGA document to this stage based various reports regarding Entewatathá:wi initiatives. on consolidations and legal advice. These meetings are Jesmer is responsible for preparing and presenting instrumental to ensure the agreement is in compliance to various views on legal reports, and preparing research existing and future Akwesasne laws and relevant Federal for press releases and public notices concerning the laws. No substantial decisions or major resolutions were agreements. concluded without the presence and participation of Mohawk Council. In moving forward, we will be implementing Commu- 14 ZOOM Internal Legal Technical Review sessions were nication Actives, and dealing with outstanding matters

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 11 ENTEWATATHÁ:WI - “WE WILL GOVERN”

TSI SNAIHNE DISTRICT CHIEF CONNIE LAZORE UPDATES that have been placed on suspension due to COVID-19. Cheavee Willie, Research Writer Joanna Jesmer, Com- munications Mavis Williamson. For further information, The Entewatathá:wi members consists of; Coordinator call 613.575.5341 ext. 3193. Peter Garrow, Policy Analyst Rachel Lazare, Administer

ENTEWATATHÁ:WI WELCOMES TWO NEW STAFF MEMBERS

Peter Garrow, coordinator for Entewatathá:wi – “We will brings experience in public relations as a past instructor Govern” is pleased to present two new members to the and doing public relations. Mavis earned her Bachelor team. Joanna Jesmer has many years of experience as a of Arts, degree at Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB Naturalized Knowledge Systems researcher and brings with a major in Commerce and minor in Sociology. She her knowledge of the needs of the Mohawk community brings her past experience of working in communication to Nation Building. She is a graduate of Trent University, for a public environment and non profi t organizations. Peterborough, On, with a Bachelor of Arts in Native His- Her and husband recently moved to Cornwall they have tory and MST- Master in Science of Teaching SUNY at two children and three grandchildren. Potsdam N.Y. Joanna has two children and 3 grandchil- dren. Peter Garrow noted that he is “pleased to have individu- als with such skills bringing their background and expe- Mavis Williamson joined the team in December. She rience to our table. Welcome to Entewatathá:wi!”

(Left to right) Mavis Williamson, Communications; Peter Garrow, Coordinator of Entewatathá:wi; and Joanna Jesmer, Research Writer.

Page 12 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 COUNCIL AND MOHAWK GOVERNMENT

COUNCIL WEEKLY MEETING REPORT SUBMITTED BY GRAND CHIEF ABRAM BENEDICT inside and outside areas needs • Council agreed that the to be included. agenda for the ZOOM • Council identifi ed a committee General Meeting scheduled for to review any resumption July 30, 2020 will be an overview plans submitted by community of MCA’s response to the organizations. COVID-19 Pandemic. • A briefi ng was provided on • MCRs passed: Approval concerns about violations of funding agreement JULY 6, 2020 of a lease agreement on Stanley for Health for COVID-19 • Council discussed the increase in Island in relation to garbage Response Fund; Approval to traffi c in our waters and community disposal; administration will extend the term of the Akwesasne concerns with non-locals using follow up with OVS. Community Settlement Trust private waterfront property in • Council agreed that Trustees to October 31, Akwesasne for social gatherings. the Chiefs’ roundtable 2020; Approval of service A Chiefs’ Committee will meet updates will resume at next contract for Duty Council and to discuss potential solutions for week’s Council Meeting. Prosecutor for the Akwesasne Council’s consideration. • A briefi ng was provided on Court; Approval of Assignment • A briefi ng was provided on a engaging the Cornwall & the of Lease on Pilon Island; letter to be drafted to community Counties Community Futures Approval of Assignment of organizations requesting Development Corporation Lease on St. Francis Island; resumption plans if they wish to (CFDC) to assist with community Approval of Assignment of re-open their facility or resume engagement and project Lease on Hamilton Island; activities/events; Council agreed management for the Cornwall Approval of Assignment of Lease that plans for the use of both Harbor. on Renshaw Island.

JULY 13, 2020 Council will consider the request format for the July 30, 2020 • Council discussed the draft Ak- in the coming weeks. General Meeting via Zoom; wesasne Emergency Response • Council discussed the anticipated community members will have to Law and agreed to send it to Jus- annual request from the Cree request connection coordinates tice to be considered under the Nation to hunt in our territory and will be able to e-mail/call in law enactment process. and decided that a letter should questions in advance. • A briefi ng was provided on a be sent to inform them that, due • Council discussed a concern recent request for the return of to the pandemic, their request with the recreation fi elds being a small portion of land no longer cannot be approved at this time. used for softball games without being used for a community well; • A briefi ng was provided on the consent from the recreation continued on page 14 AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 13 COUNCIL AND MOHAWK GOVERNMENT

COUNCIL WEEKLY MEETING REPORT SUBMITTED BY GRAND CHIEF ABRAM BENEDICT centers which are closed due the review of any resumption respite care, home maintenance, to the pandemic. A letter and plans submitted by community and home security checks; community announcement organizations. Approval to offer position of will be drafted for Council • MCRs passed: Approv- Director of the Department consideration. al of temporary pandem- of Community and Social • A request was made ic pay contribution agree- Services to successful candidate for Council to review ment for Tsiionkwanonhso:te (subject to probation period); and consider modifying long-term care employees; Approval of modifi cations to the current process for the Approval of contribution MCA organizational chart; apprehension of dogs. agreement for one-time Approval of contribution • Council agreed that pandemic pay initiative for agreement with Quebec for Chief Vanessa Adams community support services such probation supervision services. will take the lead on arranging as meals on wheels, foot care,

JULY 20, 2020 • A briefi ng was provided on the compliance/conservation • Council received an up- a recent sighting of a Surete response. date on the progress of du Quebec (SQ) vessel in our • Council discussed a potential the upcoming Mohawk territorial waters; it was decided recent COVID-19 exposure Government move to that a letter will be sent to incident and will follow up with Administration Building 1. the SQ Regional Commander Community Health. • A briefi ng was provided informing them that the • A briefi ng was provided on an on a recent call with Akwesasne Mohawk Police alternative COVID-19 entry Indigenous Services Canada Service (AMPS) is the responsible process for research and regarding the Reserve Land police force in our territory consideration. and Environment Management and should the AMPS need • MCRs passed: Approval Program (RLEMP) and how it assistance they will request it. of allotment of land to relates to Akwesasne. • Council discussed the need community member; • Council discussed concerns for AMPS to ensure their Approval of 2 amendments to raised by community presence patrolling our Akwesasne–Canada funding members regarding potential territorial waters is known; an agreement; Approval of unauthorized use of waterfront update on the marine patrol will Emergency Council Meeting property at Akwesasne islands; be requested. Minutes, Approval of follow up will take place to • A briefi ng was provided on four sets of Council meeting discuss and confi rm unauthorized a recent complaint received minutes. use. regarding a nuisance dog and

Page 14 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 COUNCIL AND MOHAWK GOVERNMENT

TSI SNAIHNE DISTRICT CHIEF CONNIE LAZORE UPDATES portfolios and existing projects. issues effecting the communities by COVID19, updates were also Weekly Monday Council Special provided on the work done prior Meeting—we are resuming our to the COVID and work done in the weekly meetings to conduct MCA AFNQL Commission since COVID. business. I participated in an interview with Weekly Tuesday Border Update Carleton University, Indigenous Pol- Meeting with CBSA/US Customs/ icy & Administration Program. Stu- Portfolio: Justice, Public Safety, Leadership are held to maintain dents engaged with myself and an- Executive Services an update on potential changes. other former student on leadership, Month: April & May 2020 Border remains closed to non- challenges, lessons learned, etc. Committee: Finance, Governance, essential travel. Cannabis Working Task Group Participated in a conference call with Weekly Wednesday Council COVID Coast Guard to discuss processes All Meetings Listed are through 19 Update Meeting is held to be to enter Akwesasne for routine Zoom. updated on areas surrounding maintenance of their equipment. The month of June, Council oper- Akwesasne and discuss issues of The Coast Guard wanted to make ated through technology utilizing concern. sure they were following any and “Zoom” software for our meetings. all protocols established by the Our meetings consisted of Council Thursday is my scheduled day to be MCA during this COVID time. Special meeting, COVID Update, in the offi ce. I attend and work from The Mohawk Police, Offi ce of Border Update, and a meeting with our offi ce on this day; the rest of the Vital Statistics, MCA Coast Guard the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Leader- week I work from home. Liaison, and Communications were ship; all held on a weekly basis. also present on the call. Weekly Friday Leadership Meeting I attended the Emergency Opera- with SRMT. Work in Progress: tions Center each Thursday from This section will provide the 9-5pm. Eventually the EOC was Justice Portfolio Meetings resumed community with other activities, scaled back and Council moved this month, we reviewed previous projects and initiatives that are still back to our offi ces. Council decided projects, potential moves and under development or in progress. to maintain the schedule created changes to the Department not yet It will also serve as an informative for the EOC and attend our offi ce fi nalized. update on where items are and on the same days we worked at the what is being advanced for the EOC. AFNQL Virtual Chiefs Assembly was community. held on June 2nd & 4th, I participated The focus for Council was COVID-19. through the Zoom meeting process. • Recreational Cannabis Working As June I began working within my Updates were provided on various Task Group Meetings continues, continued on page 16 AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 15 COUNCIL AND MOHAWK GOVERNMENT

TSI SNAIHNE DISTRICT CHIEF CONNIE LAZORE UPDATES continued from page 15 ensure we were coordinated on 8. Transport Canada we meet in May and June 5th. our efforts. 9. Canadian Coast Guard The WTG has presented to Coun- • Conference call was also cil for consideration two Retail coordinated and held with Financial Status/Lobbying License Agreements. The WTG the Minister of Public Safety Progress continue the work to reviewing to discuss funding for the To update on any lobbying applications. Compliance Program, again we initiatives, positive outcomes or • Administration of Justice held prep meetings to prepare to Financial gains. Working Task Group: Ministries of ensure we utilized our time well. 1. Member of the Finance Justice for Canada, Provinces of Committee Quebec and Ontario along with Collaborative Opportunities: 2. Member of the Benefi ts Akwesasne began discussions Outside committees or meetings Committee to renew the work on the court such as AIAI, IC, AFN, COO, etc. 3. Member of the Governance recognition. 1. Assembly of First Nations Committee • Conference calls were Quebec & Labrador (AFNQL) 4. Member of the Working Task coordinated and held with the 2. Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Group on Cannabis Minister of Justice/Attorney 3. Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) 5. Member of AFNQL Ad Hoc General of Canada Offi ce to 4. Crown & Indigenous Relations & Committee – Charter Review discuss funding needs for the Northern Affairs (CIRNA) 6. Member of the MCA Leadership Department of Justice: Court 5. Department of Justice Committee re: CBSA and Compliance. A prep meeting 6. Public Safety Canada was held prior to this meeting to 7. CBSA

Page 16 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 SOCIAL MEDIA CONNECTION

FACEBOOK STATS

Facebook Posts with the Most Likes in July 1. Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance EMT Issac McDonald Receives Paramedic Certifi cation (Photo) 2. Non-Insured Health Benefi ts Receives New 8-Passenger Van (Photos) 3. MCA Issues First Retail Cannabis Businesses Licenses (Notice) 4. MCA Health Portfolio Chiefs: Message to the Community (Video) 5. MCA Food Sovereignty Survey (Photo & Link)

Facebook Posts with the Highest Reach in July 1. SRMT & MCA Confi rm Three Positive Cases of COVID-19 — 8,230 reached 2. SRMT & MCA Report Two New COVID-19 Cases Today — 7,209 reached 3. MCA Dept. of Infrastructure & Housing Elder Home Repair Program — 5,236 reached 4. Urgent Reminder to Socially Distance & Take Proper Precautions — 4,827 reached 5. MCA Performing Precautionary Measures for COVID-19 — 4,734 reached

TWITTER STATS Top Tweet in July

YOUTUBE STATS Highest Viewed Videos on the MCA Youtube Channel for July 1. DIH Public Consultation Meeting — Demolition of Old Admin. 2 Building 2. CKON Community Update with Grand Chief — July 7, 2020 3. MCA Health Portfolio Chiefs: Message to the Community

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 17 CHILDREN’S PAGE

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 45 FUN THINGS TO DO BEFORE SUMMER ENDS 1. Play frisbee 16. Backyard camping 31. Climb a tree 2. Fly a kite 17. Family game night 32. Have a craft day 3. Make s’mores 18. Wash your parents car 33. Roast marshmellows 4. Build a sand castle 19. Have a family scavenger hunt 34. Make your own pizza 5. Picnic in the park 20. Get ice cream 35. Make a slip and slide 6. Watch fi reworks 21. Go swimming 36. Make a dance video 7. Tye Die a shirt 22. Watch a movie at the drive-in 37. Make your own puppets 8. Water balloon fi ght 23. Go for a bike ride 38. Have a puppet show 9. Catch lightening bugs 24. Have a pillow fi ght 39. Catch butterfl ies (and release) 10. Go on a hike 25. Play in the rain 40. Jump rope 11. Read a book 26. Playdoh 41. Make a campfi re 12. Blow bubbles 27. Finger Paint 42. Play with glowsticks 13. Play in sprinklers 28. Play hide and go seek 43. Make homemade lemonade 14. Have a BBQ 29. Feed some ducks 44. Stargaze 15. Sidewalk chalk fun 30. Go to a local beach 45. Go fi shing

SIMPLY A-MAZE-ING CONNECT THE DOTS Help the butterfl y fi nd the fl ower. v

Page 18 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 CHILDREN’S PAGE

COLOUR ME!

YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING ME! What time did the man go to the What is Beethoven’s favorite fruit? dentist? Tooth hurt-y. A ba-na-na-na.

“How do you make a Kleenex dance? What’s orange and sounds like a Put a little boogie in it! parrot. A: A carrot!

AUGUST 2020 Page 19 EXECUTIVE SERVICES

COMPLIMENTS & APPRECIATIONS The Akwesasne Mohawk Police would like to thank our local Nia:wen to all of the receptionists at the Mohawk Council community members for quick thinking in assisting a boater of Akwesasne who are working hard to help out community who lost control of his vessel and was ejected from the boat. members. You are such an important part of the organization as you are the fi rst person the community sees and hears when they AMPS reminds the community to practice safe boating skills by are contacting the organization. You are all doing an awesome job wearing a life jacket (PFD) and always have the engine kill switch and we appreciate all that you do! key attached to your body or waist during operation. ______Niawenhko:wa to the maintenaince staff who are putting in Niawenhko:wa to all of the staff that organized and the tremendous efforts to ensure that our buildings are clean. This is community members who attended the Zoom meeting regarding such an important job as you help to keep the organization safe for the Demolition of the Administration Building #2 (former chiefs employees and the community members who visit our buildings. building). With the ongoing pandemic, we are looking at new ways Keep up the great work! to get information out to the community, and one way is with ______videoconferencing technology. We are pleased that the community in embracing the new technology as we navigate through these Nia:wen to all of those who helped put in the raised bed gardens trying times. for the community. It was a great effort, for a great cause!

Page 20 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

WHOLISTIC HEALTH AND WELLNESS OFFERING ON-SITE MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTION SERVICES The Wholistic Health and Wellness Kawehno:ke Medical Clinic now currently on hold. Program is now offering on-site include essential appointments, Mental Health & Addiction services bloodwork by appointment each Keeping each other safe for the community. This will be by Wednesday and immunizations for • Screening appointment only, walk-ins are not children on Fridays. Call 613 932- All Patients are screened. available at this time. 5808 for more information. All staff are screened every day. • Masks Medical Clinic Telephone Prevention Services consists of Everyone wears a mask in public appointments will continue and are virtual programming at this time. spaces. encouraged. Medical staff wear additional PPE. Traditional Medicine will provide • Handwashing On-Site Services are available at services by telephone. Our staff wash their hands Kanonhkwatsheri:io include the Medicine Deliveries for existing frequently, and before and after all Akwesasne Medical Clinic, Mental clients can be scheduled by calling patient interactions. Hand sanitizer Health and Addictions. Call 613 575 613 575 2341 extension 3100. is available. 2341 for more information. • Cleaning Physiotherapy and Traditional All counselling and exam rooms On-Site Services available at the Medicine Healing Sessions are are cleaned before and after each

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 21 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

WHOLISTIC HEALTH AND WELLNESS OFFERING ON-SITE MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTION SERVICES appointment. one. If you arrive late, you will be • Physical Distancing • Park & Call rescheduled. Everyone stays 6 feet apart, except Wait in your vehicle in the designated • Wear Your Mask when needed for medical treatment. parking spaces. If you don’t have one, we’ll provide • Virtual Visits Available Call your provider upon arrival. one. Please call 613 575 2341 extension • Screening • Screening 3215 for more information. You will be screened prior to You will be screened prior to entering the building entering the building Medical Clinics • Escort • Escort What to Expect when you arrive A staff member will escort you inside Inform the front desk of your • Arrive On Time the building. provider’s name. If you arrive late, you will be They will be called and will meet rescheduled. Mental Health & Addictions you in the reception area & escort • Wear Your Mask What to Expect when you arrive you to your appointment. If you don’t have one, we’ll provide • Arrive On Time

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REPORT & UPDATES (JULY 24, 2020)

The Kanonhkwa’tsheri:io Health Facility is now open please let the screeners know, and one will be provided. to the community for services by appointment only. Please note that upon entry to the building you will be PROGRAM UPDATES: screened at the front door. If for any reason you do not pass the screener, you will not be allowed to enter the COMMUNITY HEALTH PROGRAM facility and will be directed to phone the Community The immunization program, Diabetes Education Health Program. program and Quebec Health, Smoking Cessation continue to operate, please call the offi ce prior to The safety of the community and the staff are paramount, coming in the building. please be patient with the screening process as there may be a line up; be respectful and maintain physical Many of the appointments remain virtual and or by distancing of 6 feet or 2 meters. Please limit your phone. In-offi ce appointments are all scheduled. Offi ce movement around the building to your scheduled visits are decided on a case by case basis. appointment. For scheduled appointments: Masks/face coverings are a requirement upon entry to • Please arrive at scheduled time the facility. If you do not have a mask/face covering • Wait in your vehicle in designated spot as arranged

Page 22 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REPORT & UPDATES (JULY 24, 2020) when appointment made any questions that people may have or will provide for • Wear your mask/face covering an assessment. At times the assessment process can • Staff will meet you outside and if needed will escort take up to half an hour. you in the building • Expect to be screened prior to entry to the facility If testing is indicated or requested, the staff will assist with scheduling or referring to the appropriate place, Assessment/Testing for COVID-19: this may be due to availability of next appointment, or If you have any questions or are seeking information convenience for community members. regarding COVID – 19, please call the Community Health Program at (613) 575-2341 X 3220 and ask to As every situation is unique and every community speak to a nurse. member is unique, the process may be different with every call. Due to the volume of calls, you may be asked to leave your number for one of the nurses to return your call. When results come into the Community Health Program, At times the wait times can be as long as 6 hours. Staff the community member will be phoned directly and may return calls the next day as well. Your patience is followed up as needed. Results may take up to 3 days appreciated. excluding the weekends and holidays.

When the nurse returns your call, they will assist with Privacy and confi dentiality are of utmost importance,

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 23 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REPORT & UPDATES (JULY 24, 2020) note your information will not be shared with anyone Total COVID-19 related calls: 1,710 without prior consent. Total tests up until July 23, 2020: 362

Numbers for Assessment/Testing Site: WHOLISTIC HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAM March 13, 2020 — May 31, 2020 (2.5 months) The Wholistic Health and Wellness Program will begin • 671 total COVID – 19 related calls offering on-site Mental Health & Addiction services for • 40 tests the community on July 20. This will be by appointment only, walk-ins are not available at this time. June 1, 2020 — June 30, 2020 (1 month) • 288 total COVID-19 related calls Medical Clinic: Telephone appointments will continue • 64 tests and are encouraged.

July 1, 2020 — July 23, 2020 (3+ weeks) On-Site Services are available at Kanonhkwat’sheri:io, • 751 total COVID-19 related calls which includes the Akwesasne Medical Clinic, Mental Of those: Health, and Addictions. Call 613-575-2341 for more • 265 were follow ups information. • 260 were assessments • 258 tests have been completed up until yesterday. On-Site Services available at the Kawehno:ke Medical Clinic now includes essential appointments, bloodwork

Page 24 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REPORT & UPDATES (JULY 24, 2020) by appointment each Wednesday, and immunizations If you arrive late, you will be rescheduled. for children on Fridays. Call 613-932-5808 for more 2. Wear Your Mask: information. If you don’t have one, we’ll provide one. 3. Park & Call: Prevention Services consists of virtual programming at Wait in your vehicle in the designated parking spaces. this time. Call your provider upon arrival. 4. Screening: Traditional Medicine will provide services by telephone. You will be screened prior to entering the building Medicine Deliveries for existing clients can be scheduled 5. Escort: by calling 613-575-2341 ext. 3100. A staff member will escort you inside the building.

Physiotherapy & Traditional Medicine Healing Sessions are on hold. MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS — WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE KEEPING EACH OTHER SAFE 1. Arrive On Time: Screening: If you arrive late, you will be rescheduled. • All Patients are screened. 2. Wear Your Mask: • All staff are screened every day. If you don’t have one, we’ll provide one. Masks: 3. Screening: • Everyone wears a mask in public spaces. You will be screened prior to entering the building • Medical staff wear additional PPE. 4. Escort: Handwashing: Inform the front desk of your provider’s name. • Our staff wash their hands frequently, and before and They will be called and will meet you in the reception after all patient interactions. Hand sanitizer is available. area & escort you to your appointment. Cleaning: • All counselling and exam rooms are cleaned before and after each appointment. AKWESASNE NON-INSURED HEALTH BENEFITS Physical Distancing: The Akwesasne Non-Insured Health Benefi ts (ANIHB) • Everyone stays 6 feet apart, except when needed for Program remains operational. To maintain safety medical treatment. community members are encouraged to contact the • Virtual Visits Available ANIHB through telephone or through email. Curbside • Please call 613-575-2341 ext. 3215 for more service is available by appointment only for forms and information. signatures. Forms can also be found on our website at http://www.akwesasne.ca/…/akwesasne-non-insured- health-ben…/. MEDICAL CLINICS — WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE If you have any questions please call (613) 575 – 2341 1. Arrive On Time: ext. 3340.

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 25 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REPORT & UPDATES (JULY 24, 2020)

HOME CARE/HOME SUPPORT the Eastern Ontario Health Unit to ensure the safety of The Home Care/Home Support Program continues to the community members being served. provide services to the community. All Home Care/Home Support Program staff have If you have questions for the Home Care/Home Support their temperatures taken daily and complete a health Program team call 613-575-2341. screening prior to any client visits.

In providing quality services to community members TSIIONKWANONHSO:TE & IAKHIHSOHTHA while limiting the risk of exposure to COVID-19 the The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Department Home Care Nurses are required to wear full personal of Health is informing the community that visits to protective equipment when they meet with clients. The its long-term care homes – Tsiionkwanonhso:te and personal protective equipment worn by the Home Care Iakhihsohtha – have resumed with guidelines in place Nurses includes gown, gloves, surgical masks and face to protect the health of our residents from the spread shield. All new clients will be contacted by phone prior of COVID-19. to their appointment to review the health and safety protocols for the visit. The following are guidelines being implemented for the resumption of visits: The Home Care/Home Support Program follows the 1. All visitors must undergo a screening process before health care guidelines and directives being released by visiting.

Page 26 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REPORT & UPDATES (JULY 24, 2020)

2. All visits must be booked by appointment. PROXIM PHARMACY 3. Visits will take place in outdoor tents, and social The pharmacy is operational, although not open to the distancing must be adhered to. public. The pharmacy staff will provide for curbside 4. Visits will resume in phases per guidelines of the service and they can be reached at (613) 575-2341 ext. Ministry of Long-term Care. Phase 1 permits one visit 3250 per resident per week. Visits will gradually increase. 5. Families or power of attorneys must coordinate AKWESASNE DENTAL CLINIC independently to determine who in the family will visit The Dental Clinic has begun to resume services to clients per week. for scheduled appointments. Please call (613)575-2341 6. Visits in Phase 1 will be 40 minutes long. Please do ext. 3209, a staff member will escort you into the not arrive more than 5 minutes early for your visit time, building. to prevent interaction with other visitors.

Additional protocols are being implemented to ensure a safe yet enjoyable visit. We wish to assure the community that restrictions are in place for the protection of your family members, our residents, who we all care deeply for. We look forward to your visit.

If you have any questions, please contact: • Tsiionkwanonhso:te Activity Director Teresa David: 613-932-1409 ext. 3. • Iakhihsohtha Activity Supervisor Sue Smoke: 613- 575-2507 ext. 3.

AKWESASNE MOHAWK AMBULANCE Ambulance services remain operational and will be screening all calls. For all emergencies please call Central Dispatch at 613-575-2000. Please be prepared for screening questions.

DR. DANIELLE DUBUC – OPTOMETRY Optometry has begun to resume services to clients for scheduled appointments. Please call (613)575-2341 ext. 3131. When entering the building staff will escort you to your appointment.

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 27 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

NON-INSURED PROGRAM RECEIVES NEW 8-PASSENGER VAN

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Non-Insured gloves for the protection of our passengers and drivers. Health Benefi ts Program (ANIHB) received a new Cleanings are done throughout the day to ensure the 8-passenger vehicle funded by Indigenous Services safety of all passengers, and masks are to be worn at Canada. This passenger vehicle will be used to help all times. effi ciently transport patients to non-emergency, medically-necessary appointments. Non-emergency The anticipated benefi ts of the new vehicle include appointments are defi ned as clinics, ultrasound testing, the ability to accommodate more passengers and x-rays, bloodwork, doctor’s visits or any medical or patient escorts, and allows added space for specialized dental appointments. wheelchairs that are diffi cult to navigate in the smaller vans. The added space will create a safer, more The new passenger vehicle can accommodate six comfortable experience for all of our clients who passengers, with two spots reserved for wheelchair require wheelchair services, while also complying with clients. Due to COVID-19 guidelines, the ANIHB will social distancing protocols. be limiting the number of passengers, but anticipates to be able to transport 4-6 patients at a time in the To access Medical Transportation services future. The Dodge ProMaster 8-passenger vehicle and scheduling, please contact the ANIHB Medical has been retrofi tted with hygienic shields to comply Transportation staff Josephine Herne or Jillian Round- with the Ministry of Transportation Guidelines. All of point, at least 2 weeks in advance, by calling 613-575- our medical transportation vehicles are supplied with 2341 ext. 3343 or ext. 3352. sanitizers, cleaning supplies (spray/wipes), masks and

The Non-Insured Health Benefi ts Program staff in front of the new 8-passenger van they received.

Page 28 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 29 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

AKWESASNE MOHAWK AMBULANCE EMT ISSAC MCDONALD RECEIVES PARAMEDIC CERTIFICATION Through hard work and determination, Issac McDonald accomplishments and all that you do for Akwesasne. of the Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance received his Congratulations Issac! paramedic certifi cation. Below, Issac discusses what it means that he is now a paramedic. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING AS AN EMT AND FOR THE AMA? The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne is proud of your So my journey to Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulances started back in the summer 2006 while I was a part time dispatcher for Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service. The A/manager at the time Lois Terrance walked over to the dispatch offi ce and asked me if I had any more of that free time and asked if I could fi ll in shift or two.

While I was already working with AMA EMT’s as a dispatcher, now I got to be in the fi eld. After the fi rst call I went on, I was impressed and hooked. I signed up for the fi rst daytime EMT class held at the Alice Hyde Medical Center. This was a challenge working shift work and going to EMT class but I made it through. I obtained my EMT-B in April of 2007. Once I got “my card” I was thrown into the mix. While I did have some experience in EMS as a driver, now I was doing patient care.

During the fi rst year of my career I encountered some calls where we had to call for advanced life support or “ALS” for short. These guys and girls would hop in the back of the ambulance and start IV’s, draw up some medications, hook the patient up to a cardiac monitor, and do all sorts of cool and amazing things with medicine. That stoked my interest to continue my work in the fi eld.

After networking with the ALS providers, I was pointed west, and joined the Massena

Page 30 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

AKWESASNE MOHAWK AMBULANCE EMT ISSAC MCDONALD RECEIVES PARAMEDIC CERTIFICATION Volunteer Emergency Unit (MVEU). have any ALS providers. From the AMA did not hold any advanced Back in 2008 when I joined MVEU, start of my ALS education, I was told certifi cations at the time, I could our local AMA was only a Basic Life by AMA management (at the time) not use my skills, but I could use my Support (BLS) service. While the that taking this course was going to knowledge. Therefore, to keep up BLS skills are life saving, I felt that be a waste of my time, and that we (at with my skills I remained a volunteer there was a whole opportunity to AMA) will never be an ALS service. at MVEU, answering ALS calls for the bring this advanced life support to While it was very discouraging, Town and Village of Massena, and Akwesasne. I went on to learn for myself, and on occasion when needed, came to thought maybe, just maybe, there Akwesasne to render assistance. As a member of MVEU, I signed up for will be a chance advancing our little the Advanced Emergency Medical ambulance service. The need to advance our ambulance Technician- Critical Care through service was evident as we had SUNY Canton. It took 9 months I obtained my AEMT-Critical Care increased our advanced providers of 2 nights a week and a Saturday certifi cation in June of 2010. I was a to 3 AEMT-Critical Care and 1 here and there and practically living certifi ed ALS provider, but because Paramedic. In January 2016, we at MVEU to fulfi ll my ride time requirements. If going to class was hard, doing ride time was even a bigger challenge, but it was a good challenge as I had the best of the best Preceptors: Jimmy Jock, Wayne Love, both AEMT- CC’s and Bill Griffi th NYS Paramedic to name a few. They taught me a lot, and expanded my knowledge, and with every call I was learning from them and also gaining valuable experience. I couldn’t do that here in Akwesasne, because our ambulance service at the time did not hold the “Advanced” certifi cation and we didn’t Issac, along with other members of the Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance.

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 31 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

AKWESASNE MOHAWK AMBULANCE EMT ISSAC MCDONALD RECEIVES PARAMEDIC CERTIFICATION were able increase the Akwesasne Malone, but on occasion we had trained into a solid fi eld paramedic. Mohawk Ambulance level of care to travel to the main classroom in This was while working full time at to (the highest pre-hospital level of Lewis, NY which is about an hour AMA as an acting supervisor, raising care) Paramedic level. While there and forty minutes away. The plan a family, and holding 3rd Assistant was a ton of paperwork, contracts was to start the program in Sept Chief of Hogansburg Akwesasne and new policies that needed to be 2018 which we did and fi nish in Volunteer Fire Deparment, (and lets established, it fi nally felt that all those August 2019. While I successfully not forget about the pandemic). years of keeping up with the skills is completed the program, now I had now paying off, and Advanced Life to fi nish my clinical and ride time. WHAT DOES IT MEAN NOW Support is now in Akwesasne. Fast THAT YOU ARE A PARAMEDIC? forward to today, we have increased “ IN JANUARY 2016, As a paramedic, my knowledge our staffi ng numbers: we now have WE WERE ABLE TO has greatly increased, and as EMS 2 paramedics, 2 AEMT Critical Care evolves and changes we were INCREASE THE AMA providers, 4 AEMT, and 15 EMT-B’s. trained to think, plan, and provide Currently, out of the 15 EMT-B’s 3 of LEVEL OF CARE TO care to our patients, the skill them are in class for AEMT level, I PARAMEDIC LEVEL.” set from AEMT-Critcal Care, to cant tell them enough at how proud Paramedic are almost identical. It is I am of each and every one of them the education and training behind a who are here providing services to With the low number of certifi ed paramedic. While I’m not a doctor, our community. paramedics in our area and the I better understand how a doctor number of students, it was a thinks, establishes their differential My position today is acting challenge to meet our requirements. diagnosis, establishes their working supervisor, and newly certifi ed NYS I worked in the ER shadowing nurses diagnosis, and provides high- paramedic. It felt good to change my and physicians at the Alice Hyde quality care. I learned a great deal email signatures, and credentials; it Medical Center, and worked with of knowledge working alongside was a long 18 months. my program medical director Dr. Emergency Room (ER) physicians Tiffany Bombard at Champlain Valley and learning about emergency HOW LONG DID IT TAKE FOR Physicians Hospital in Plattsburgh, medicine. YOU TO RECEIVE YOUR NY. Did some time at Adirondack PARAMEDIC CERTIFICATE? Medical Center in Saranac Lake ARE YOU ENCOURAGING I took the University of Vermont NY working in the OR shadowing OTHERS TO GET THEIR Health Network Elizabethtown anesthesiologists and CRNA’s. CERTIFICATE? Community Hospital Paramedic Once my clinical experiences Absolutely! I can see the interest Program, which is a 2 year paramedic were complete, I was traveling to in emergency medicine within program condensed to 11 months. Gouverneur, Ogdensburg, Saranac our EMT’s in Akwesasne; they We did remote classes at North Lake in New York State to work with are hungry for knowledge, and Country Community classes in paramedics, and so that I could be education. You are responsible for

Page 32 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

AKWESASNE MOHAWK AMBULANCE EMT ISSAC MCDONALD RECEIVES PARAMEDIC CERTIFICATION your own destiny. If you want it, and kids for 6 days straight. Between either my work uniform or school are willing to learn and work for it, I working nights and traveling to uniform. Now that its over, it feels am willing to help you. clinical shifts, I felt like quitting. good. It is actually taking me time Social media kept me in contact to adjust. I still feel like I need to WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS with my family, but nothing can go somewhere, but the only place I IN THE FIELD? replace a soft gentle hug from my need to get to now after work is to Honestly, in the future I’d like to kids. I would spend as much time as my boat and the St. Lawrence River, get into Critical Care Medicine, I could with them before putting on with my family. and maybe try out the inter-facility transports at University of Vermont Health Care Network. At some point, I may look at becoming a Registered Nurse (RN).

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT THE COMMUNITY OF AKWESASNE TO KNOW? It wasn’t easy getting here, and it didn’t happen over night; it took 10 years. 10 years of dedicating my time, and plenty of sacrifi ces to keep up with today’s every changing medicine, and pre-hospital care. My medical director told us that about 25% of the information we were taught will change based on science and best practices, so the learning will never stop.

I did not do this alone, I had a huge support system, while it was extremely diffi cult, and sometimes hard to understand, I want to say thank you to my friends, family and work family that stayed by my side. My schedule was so tight and busy in July of 2019 that I did not see my Nia:wen to all the front-line health care workers that have done so much during the pandemic.

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 33 DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY & SOCIAL SERVICES

AKWESASNE FAMILY WELLNESS PROGRAM NOW OPEN

The Akwesasne Family Wellness Program is open and The Akwesasne Family Wellness Program will be we will be accepting individuals who are seeking resi- following the health and safety guidelines outlined dential services on Monday, July 20. The Akwesasne by the Eastern Ontario Health Unit and the Mohawk Family Wellness Program provides services such as: Council of Akwesasne. a 6-week residential or non-residential program for women and men who have been victims of or exposed Individuals seeking services can contact the Akwesasne to abuse, a 24-hour support line, referrals, advocacy, Family Wellness Program at: 613-937-4322, we are education, information on domestic violence and Out- open 24/7, 7 days a week. reach services.

MOBILE UNIT FULL OF FUN AND AKWESASNE FAMILY WELLNESS ACTIVITIES FOR AKWESASRONON RECEIVES $1000 COVID-19 GRANT

Over the summer, various families are lucky to In July, the Akwesasne Family Wellness Program experience a fun fi lled day with the Akwesasne Child received a $1000 grant from the Rotary Club of Cornwall and Family Service Program and the Akwesasne Sunrise for COVID-19 relief. Boys & Girls Club! Niawen girls for letting ACFS and Akwesasne Boys & Girls Club hang out. The Rotary Club noted, “We strongly support the work these local organizations offer to women and children and the grants were provided as fi nancial support to be put toward food, cleaning products, personal protective equipment (PPE) and gas for clients in need.”

Nia:wen for the donation!

The ACFS Program, along with ABGC visited a family with the mobile The Akwesasne Family Wellness Program received a $1000 COVID-19 unit, which is fi lled with fun games and activities for all to enjoy! relief grant from the Rotary Club of Cornwall Sunrise.

Page 34 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 AKWESASNE JUSTICE DEPARTMENT

AKWESASNE COURT UPDATE — PANDEMIC CLOSURE & FINE PAYMENTS

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many events esateni Road, Akwesasne, ON K6H 0G5 (Canadian Ad- being cancelled. Based on the guidelines established dress). for prevention measures and to maintain the health and 3. Sending a check or money order to the Akwesasne safety of our community and staff, it was determined that Court, Attention: Akwesasne Court Clerk, PO Box 489 the Akwesasne Court would postpone all matters until Akwesasne, NY 13655 (American Address). September 2020. If your ticket has “NSF” written on the fi ne amount, you Anyone who has received a Uniform Traffi c Ticket and can call the Court Clerk at 613-575-2250 ext. 1026 or Duty the ticket indicates a “set fi ne,” you may pay the fi ne any Counsel. Duty Counsel would work with the Prosecutor time before the September court date. to offer an Early Resolution on your infraction.

There are several options available to you which practices In order to reach the Duty Counsel, you will still call the physical distancing. Court Clerk at 613-575-2250 ext. 1026.

Fine payments are accepted during this time through When the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne allows the the following processes: public back into the buildings, the Akwesasne Court will 1. Over the phone, by credit card. Call the MCA Finance communicate where in-person payments can be made. Department at 613-575-2250 ext. 2168. 2. Sending a check or money order to the Akwesasne Niawenhko:wa for your patience during this unprece- Court, Attention: Akwesasne Court Clerk, CIA#3, Tew- dented time.

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 35 AHKWESAHSNE MOHAWK BOARD OF EDUCATION

TAKE WHAT YOU NEED

Beginning on Tuesday, August 4 AMBE staff will be with a current active phone number that you can be conducting an important survey over the phone. reached at. You may update your contact information and phone The purpose of this survey is to gauge how our families number by: feel about our schools reopening and to ensure that - Calling the AMBE Admin. Offi ce at (613) 933-0409 or our plans support community needs. - Emailing [email protected] or - Via Messenger through the Facebook page To be sure your input is collected, please provide AMBE ‘Ahkwesahsne Mohawk Board of Education’

LACEY PIERCE AWARDED PRESIDENT’S LIST AWARD

Iohahi:io and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne would like to congratulate Lacey Pierce on being the recipient of the 2020 President’s List Award!

Lacey is a graduate of the Iohahi:io Mental Health and Addictions Worker program.

Pierce, who is also a employee at the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne noted, “Without the fl exibility and support of being a MCA employee during these past two years of studies, none of this would of been possible.”

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne would like to wish Lacey all of the best on her future endeavors. This is a wonderful achievement!

Congratulations to all of the students who are Class of 2020 graduates.

CONTACT US! Ahkwesahsne Mohawk Tsi Snaihne School Iohahi:io Board of Education (613) 575-2291 (613) 575-2754 or (613) 933-0409 or Kana:takon School (613) 575-2250 ext. 4100 (613) 575-2250 ext. 1400 (613) 575-2323 Ahkwesahsne Mohawk School (613) 932-3366 Page 36 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 ENVIRONMENT

WE LOVE THE RIVER

During the week of July 20-24, 2020, the Mohawk Institute staff, and volunteers come together for the Council of Akwesasne Environment Program cel- Great River Cleanup. Although this year was cancelled ebrated Kaniatarowanenneh, the Great St. Law- due to the COVID-19 pandemic, over the past fi ve rence River. Throughout the week, various posts years over 40 tons has been removed during the River were shared honoring the river and highlighting the Cleanup. water. Nia:wen to those that continue to keep our beautiful Typically around this time of year, MCA and River waters clean.

In past years during the Great River Cleanup, over 40 tons of garbage has been removed by volunteers.

ECO INVADERS

MCA Environment is a founding member of Eastern Dorothy Hamilton through email at dorothy55@ Ontario Model Forest (EOMF). During the summer of simpatico.ca. If you can send along a picture and 2020, staff is gathering information on Eco Invaders location that would be helpful as well. that may be headed our way.

Gypsy moth catepillars are munching their way through local forests in numbers not seen in 30 years, stripping leaves from sugar maples, oaks and evergreens. However, there are some things you can do.

If you see a gypsy moth cluster, contact EOMF Director A gypsy moth catepillar infestation.

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 37 DEPARTMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND HOUSING

DEPARTMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND HOUSING UPDATES

The Department of Infrastructure and Housing pres- that included information provided by Indigenous ents the following - Current Projects – Update: Services Canada (ISC), Health Canada, Public Works Government Services Canada (PWGSC), Cleland Wade Lafrance Memorial Road Jardine Consultants and WSP about the abatement Reconstruction Project: procedure and demolition of the Admin 2 building. As reported in last month issue of ‘Onkwe’ta:ke’, the Wade Lafrance Memorial Road is in need of a full They informed about the health and safety protocol reconstruction, however, the process to secure funding measures that will be followed for abatement and they takes a long time – several months to years. In the answered community questions about the procedures interim, in order to alleviate some of the harsh road for the protection of the community and surrounding conditions, the MCA and Department of Infrastructure areas including waterways. and Portfolio agreed to do a phased design approach that will initiate focus on providing a design option Information about the July 9th question and an- for the rehabilitation of approximately 600m of road swer session can be viewed on the MCA website: repair to the worst section of the roadway limits as a akwesasne.ca, and any further questions can be for- temporary measure. warded to MCA Department of Infrastructure and Housing via MCA Communications Unit address that is The proposed work includes pulverizing and compacting noted on the website. the existing asphalt material and raising the surface approximately 150mm. The project was tendered and To view the YouTube on the session go to the following the successful bidder was Lazore’s Construction. The link: http://youtu.be/_6dcsIRZhRo project is planned to start in early August 2020 and will be completed by the end of October 2020. With this work there will be traffi c control people and signs for reduced speeds for the work zone.

The project area will be clearly marked and information updates about traffi c will be provided as the project is ready to kick-off.

MCA Administration Building II Demolition Project: MCA Administration Building II, in Kana:takon located on Third Street (also known as the “three-storey” building) is planned to be demolished this summer (2020).

A Public Consultation Meeting was held through ZOOM on July 9, 2020 The Department of Infrastructure and Housing in order to provide an update to the community on the Demolition of hosted a Public Consultation session on July 9, 2020 the Administration Building #2 .

Page 38 ONKWE’TA:KE AUGUST 2020 AKWESASNE MOHAWK POLICE SERVICE

BOATING SAFETY TIPS

With the hot summer days, many community members 4. Avoid drinking alcohol when boating. have river fun with their family. Although the Akwesasne 5. Never overload the boat. Mohawk Police Service wants you to have fun and 6. Always keep an anchor, tailer, extra fuel, warm enjoy your time on the river, they would like to remind clothing and fl ares aboard. Akwesasronon of the following boat safety tips. 7. Keep a lifejacket suitable for each passenger on board and always wear them while out 1. Check the boat engine and equipment before on the water. leaving. 8. Bring two working forms of communication. 2. Check the weather forecast before leaving. 9. Keep cellphones in a water-proof container or 3. Tell someone where you are going, and how long plastic bag. you plan on being gone. 10. Make sure to keep a fi rst-aid kit on board.

JUNE 2020 STATISTICS

June Total: 325 25 1013 Community Services 3 107 Municipal By-Laws 2 024 Break & Enter - Residence 11 1014 Crime Prevention 1 204 Sexual Assault 1 027 Theft - Automobiles 3 1016 Domestic Dispute (Non-violent) 1 205 Assault - Level 1 1 037 Theft Under $5000 - Bicycles 1 1018 Escorts - Prisoner 3 206 Assault Weapon/CBH - Level 2 1 040 Theft Under $5000 - Other 1 1023 MVC - Non-Reportable 1 210 Assault Police 2 043 Frauds - False Pretence Cheques 1 1024 Phone Calls 2 212 Assaults - Other 1 045 Frauds - Other 1 1026 Property - Lost 1 213 Other Sexual Offences 1 071 Mischief Over $5000 2 1027 Property - Found 1 6666 Assist Other Departments - Fire 3 072 Mischief (Prop. Damage) Under $5000 7 1029 Suspicious Persons 3 705 Dangerous Operation MV 5 073 Criminal Code - Other 21 1030 Suspicious Vehicles 5 711 Impaired Operation MV 1 080 Cocaine - Traffi cking 19 1031 Suspicious Circumstances 2 715 Fail to Stop/Remain (CCC) 1 088 Cannabis - Traffi cking 1 1035 Warrant - Committal 1 718 Careless Driving (HTA) 2 100 Immigration Act 2 1036 Warrant - Bench/First 3 719 Drive Disqualifi ed/Licence Suspended 8 1001 Alarms 1 1038 Missing Persons 10 721 Traffi c - Provincial Statutes 9 1003 Assist Other Agencies - Ambulance 2 1039 Property - Recovered 2 722 Traffi c - Municipal By-Laws 7 1003 Assist Other Agencies - Cornwall PS 2 1040 Traffi c Complaint 1 723 Traffi c - Parking Violations 4 1003 Assist Other Agencies - OPP 6 1041 Mental Health Act 1 Incident Type Not Listed 10 1003 Assist Other Agencies - Other 1 1045 Attempt Suicide 11 1003 Assist Other Agencies - Tribal PD 2 1046 Crisis Intervention 36 1004 Assist Public 1 1049 Medical Aid 4 1008 By-Law - Dogs 4 1050 Youth Complaint 9 1009 By-Law - Noise 9 1056 Hazardous Conditions 2 101 Firearms Act 23 106 Provincial Statutes - Other 4 1011 By-Law - Other 13 1063 Marine Patrol

AUGUST 2020 ONKWE’TA:KE Page 39