MCK does not condone conduct of Nits�nhaienhs

10/28/2020

The Mohawk Council of Kahnaw�:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community of its disappointment in regards to the conduct of two Nits�nhaienhs who violated Directive 36.3 Private Gatherings Not Permitted issued by the Kahnaw�:ke COVID-19 Task Force (Task Force) on October 7th, 2020.

On Sunday, October 25th, Nits�nhaienhs Harry Rice and Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer chose to attend an outdoor private gathering at a residence. After a report was made to the Kahnawake Mohawk Peacekeepers, the private gathering was intervened and Rice was one of those in attendance who was later issued a fine for violating a Task Force Directive. Sky-Deer and Rice were not at the gathering at the same time.

Although disappointed with the actions of the Nits�nhaienhs, the MCK acknowledges that both are taking the necessary steps to ensure they are held accountable for their actions. Both have issued public apologies and Mr Rice will pay the fine associated with violating Directives. Additionally, in order to maintain the integrity of the Task Force, Rats�nhaienhs Rice has stepped down as an MCK political representative on the Task Force and the Community Protection portfolio, effective immediately.

The Council of Chiefs do not condone these actions. We, as leaders must set the example for others in the community. All sectors of the community, especially leadership, should know and follow the directives put in place by the Task Force. We need to keep our community, and especially, our most vulnerable, safe during the pandemic.

An announcement on the newly appointed MCK political representative on the Task Force is forthcoming.