MCK offers condolences on the passing of Christine Katsitsenhawitha Zachary-Deom

02/12/2024

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK) is offering its sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Christine Katsitsenhawitha Zachary Deom, who passed on to the spirit world on February 9, 2024, at the age of 77. Christine is remembered as a beloved mother, wife, grandmother, sister, aunt, and prominent community figure.

Christine lived a life that inspired many. She is best described as extremely intelligent, deeply cultured, remarkably classy, and fiercely passionate about our Kanien′kehaka nationhood. While gentle in nature, Christine carried herself with profound conviction and strength, making her a trailblazer in the life work she dedicated herself to. She was a teacher, lawyer, elected Council Chief, local historian, and cultural advocate. She was deeply committed to defending and advancing Kahnawake′s interests and was a key contributor to work on the Seigneury of Sault St. Louis Land Grievance, the Duty to Consult, Archaeology and Heritage files of the MCK, relations with external governments, and ensuring Indigenous representation in the City of Montreal. In 2017, Christine was awarded a Key To The City of Montreal for her instrumental involvement in recognizing the contribution of Indigenous people to the city, adding iconic Iroquois symbolism to Montreal′s flag and renaming Amherst Street ′Atateken Street." Christine had a vision of Kahnaw�:ke building a home, a museum, where our culture is profiled in a manner that reflects the richness of our way of life. She was instrumental in ensuring this vision was integrated into the plans for the Multipurpose Building.

Christine spent a lifetime advancing our interests as Kanienkehaka of Kahnawake. In this path, she made remarkable waves, growing deep and respectful connections with not only friends and colleagues but also adversaries. She has fulfilled a life of service, and for this, we will remain forever grateful for her selfless contributions.

Surrounded by family and friends, Christine passed away peacefully at the Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre. She rests at her home in Kahnawake, with visitation for the public from 2pm, Monday, February 12, 2024. The Funeral service begins on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at 11am at the St Francis Xavier Mission with internment at the Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Multipurpose Building′s Beautification Fund at the Kanienkehaka Onkwawenna Raotitiohkwa Cultural Center.