The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community that the Ratitsénhaienhs have formally taken a position on the cannabis dispensary issue that has been under deliberation since April of 2025, that the number of cannabis retail dispensary licences be set to zero, thereby prohibiting the retail sale of cannabis within the Territory of Kahnawà:ke.
Under the Kahnawà:ke Cannabis Control Law (KCCL) Council is responsible for all public policy. While the previous Council established a maximum of three dispensaries, the current Ratitsénhaienhs revisited this public policy issue following extensive community concern, engagement, and deliberation, which ultimately led to the decision.
Over the past year, the Ratitsénhaienhs carefully examined the issue of cannabis retail in Kahnawà:ke, respecting legislative obligations under the KCCL and the responsibility to uphold peace, safety, and community well‑being.
This process included:
- A 45‑day moratorium on the retail sale of cannabis from June 11 to July 25, 2025;
- Community meetings, one‑on‑one discussions with Ratitsénhaienhs, and radio talk shows;
- Distribution of fact sheets, an open letter to the community, and ongoing dialogue through public forums and social media;
- The effect that the retail sale of Cannabis has had on other Onkwehón:we communities.
Throughout this engagement, two primary perspectives consistently emerged – that there be no cannabis retail at all in the Territory; or that any retail operation be community‑owned. The Council also observed a lack of interest in governance and administrative roles related to cannabis, including the absence of applicants to serve on the Kahnawà:ke Cannabis Control Board highlighting the ongoing challenges surrounding this issue.
“After reviewing all feedback, developments, and risks — including public safety and security concerns, sustained opposition from both traditional bodies, and visible community protest — we, as a Council, determined that issuing dispensary licences would not align with the current will of the community,” said Ohén:ton í:rate ne Ratitsénhaienhs Cody Diabo. “At the time the KCCL was enacted in 2018, community concerns surrounding cannabis retail were not as prevalent as they are today – as perspectives shifted and opposition increased, it became necessary for the Council to re‑examine public policy within the existing legislative framework, ensuring the Community Decision Making and Review Process is not compromised.”
Accordingly, the decision that zero dispensary licences be issued, results in a complete prohibition on cannabis retail sales within the Territory.
The Ratitsénhaienhs acknowledge the diligence, passion, and commitment shown by Kahnawa’kehró:non throughout this process. This level of engagement demonstrated the community’s shared dedication in protecting future generations and maintaining peace within the Territory.
The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke remains committed to governing in accordance with the principles of peace, health and safety, and to making decisions that reflect the voices and well‑being of the community.
