Statement from Ietsénhaienhs Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer

10/28/2020

The following is a statement issued to the community by Ietsénhaienhs Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer.

Kwe Kahnawa’kehró:non,

On Sunday, October 25, 2020, I attended an outdoor gathering intended to be a drop in birthday party for a long time friend. I kept my distance, wore a facial covering and I had left the gathering before the Peacekeepers directed individuals to disperse. I also did not enter their home at any point and honestly did not believe I was doing anything wrong nor putting the community in danger with my presence.

However, as a leader and representative of the MCK, I should know clear and well what the directives are from the Task Force. Which at this point is “no public gatherings inside or outside”. I must say that I do not think I am above anyone in the community and I must take responsibility and accountability for my actions.

I have to truly express regret and apologize to the community for my decision to attend. I know everyone in Kahnawà:ke is feeling the stress and anxiety of being under strict directives and orders while during this Pandemic by not being able to see friends and family. The Task Force has been diligent in putting in place measures to be respected by all, for the safety and protection of the community. I am no different and should have used better judgement even if social distancing, masking and hand sanitizing was exercised. The sheer optics of my presence is that I am not subject to the same standards as others and that is unacceptable.

For this, I apologize to the People of Kahnawà:ke, the Kahnawà:ke Task Force and to the Mohawk Council of Chiefs for my Ill advised decision. There’s no excuse on my part for my conduct and decision making. I try to do my best in leading by example and I take my role on Council very seriously. However, I am human and there will be instances when I make mistakes. I hope you will not allow this incident to lose confidence in me or my ability to do the job. It only holds me to the fire of the expectations and higher standards that we must be held to if we are elected representatives of this community.

Niawenhkó:wa for your understanding.

Sincerely,
Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer