Important Notice re: Border Crossing

05/04/2009

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke is informing the community that it has received a letter from INAC’s Director General of Individual Affairs, Ray Hatfield. In the letter, INAC is recommending that, “individuals who currently rely on their Certificate of Indian Status to cross the border obtain alternative documentation.” The letter is attached to this release.

“This is a disgrace,” said Grand Chief Michael Ahríhrhon Delisle, Jr. “With less than a month to go before the June 1st deadline imposed by (United States) Department of Homeland Security, we have been informed that, basically, INAC will not be in a position to deliver the new secure Status cards. This is completely unacceptable.”

“The fact that many, if not most, of our people rely on a Canadian-issued card as a primary means of identifying ourselves as Native Americans continues to put us in a difficult position,” he said. “The time has come to address this once and for all.”

“The community is being made aware immediately, he continued. “We are assuring all Kahnawa’kehró:non that we have been mobilizing. Every effort is being made to address this issue. This is absolutely a top priority.”

Grand Chief Delisle is preparing a letter to be sent, not only to Mr. Hatfield, but to all parties who have any involvement with the process. Other measures are being considered.

The community will be made aware of any and all developments as they happen.