The Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK) has become aware of a breach of trust that has occurred concerning the publication of information by a local media outlet that was intended solely for the community. At the Special Community meeting on the Industrial Fuel spill held on Wednesday, September 11th, the Council of Chiefs met with the community in order to inform and engage directly on confidential matters and litigation strategy.
As the information was highly sensitive, introductory statements were made at the community meeting that this was to be considered as a closed space and that all matters discussed should remain confidential. The Council of Chiefs were later informed that the efforts to maintain confidentiality were disregarded by a local media outlet. The Council treats these matters with the utmost importance, particularly when such incidents have potentially negative impacts on the community.
“Breaches of this nature threaten the Council′s ability to effectively engage with the community on matters of importance,” said Ohén:ton Í:rate ne Ratitsénhaiehs Cody Diabo. “As such, we as a Council wish to discuss this breach of trust at the upcoming Community meeting, to ensure the efforts we are making to be as transparent as possible can continue.”
The Council continues its commitment to openness and transparency with the community and this issue will be added to the agenda in order to engage Kahnawa’kehró:non at the Summer Community meeting scheduled for Wednesday, September 18th, at the Golden Age Club (beginning at 7pm).
Until the concerns of the community are addressed, the MCK will refrain from conducting business with the media outlet in question.
