Sky-Deer attends special Indigenous commemoration in Mexico

08/13/2021

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community that Ohén:ton Í:iente ne Ratitsénhaienhs (Grand Chief) Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer, is in Mexico City, Mexico attending a global Indigenous gathering, 500 years of Indigenous Resistance – 1521, the fall of Mexico-Tenochtitian. The Ohén:ton Í:iente ne Ratitsénhaienhs is representing the Mohawk People of the Northeast at the commemoration, in lieu of Akwesasró:non Iakowihene Oakes.

The gathering brings together Indigenous delegates from across the world to discuss the systemic hardships that Indigenous communities have fought throughout their histories.

“Our people, including the Kanien’kehá:ka, have continually fought for our rights, lands, and freedom since first contact. Like most Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island, this fight continues, and this gathering is an important opportunity for us to not only commemorate but also share our experience of resistance, defiance, and history with our fellow brothers and sisters,” said Ohén:ton Í:iente ne Ratitsénhaienhs Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer.

Sky-Deer, who is attending this event as an invited guest of Mexican President, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, will meet with the international delegation today and speak to the spirit of resistance and resilience of Our People before returning home Saturday evening. All expenses for Sky-Deer’s trip were covered by the Government of Mexico.

In light of COVID-19, the MCK would like to assure the community that all safety precautions are being taken by Sky-Deer, and all measures will be adhered to, including proof of a negative COVID test upon her return and any additional measure that may be required.