MCK statement on unacceptable Community Meeting behaviors

11/19/2018

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke wishes to express its disappointment and concern regarding unacceptable behaviors at recent Community Meetings.

“While politics can be emotional, there is absolutely no place in our society, let alone public meetings, for some of the behaviors we’ve witnessed recently,” said Grand Chief Joseph Tokwiro Norton. “From the time we are born we are taught the ways of our people. At the top of the list is always being respectful. Our ancestors would not be impressed.”

In recent years meetings have been conducted, for the most part, in a very respectful manner. For example, Community Decision Making Process meetings always begin with Ohén:ton Karihwatéhkwen, followed by a reading of the expected behaviors. There is no room for violence of any kind, threatening gestures or language, or even raised voices. The same statements were made at the beginning of last Tuesday’s Community Meeting.

“We have been approached by community members who were very upset by the events of last Tuesday’s meeting,” Grand Chief Norton continued. “No one should ever feel uncomfortable or fearful in such gatherings. Most Kahnawa’kehró:non want no part of intimidation, bad language and other disrespectful actions. We all share the responsibility to provide a safe environment for public discussion and debate, and it is our job, as Chief & Council, to maintain strict vigilance in these matters.”

The MCK, in no uncertain terms, reiterates its condemnation for such disruptive actions and, on behalf of all Kahnawa’kehrò:non, reminds those few who wish to engage in unacceptable behavior that it cannot and will not be tolerated.