The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to provide community members with the proper tools and information available to support safe and informed travel when crossing the U.S. border. Recent rising issues south of the medicine line have highlighted the importance of understanding your rights as Onkwehón:we. The MCK and the Jay Treaty Border Alliance (JTBA), have prepared resources to help both U.S.-born Onkwehón:we and Canadian-born Onkwehón:we (Jay Treaty entrants) navigate border crossings respectfully with the appropriate documentation.
If you were born in Canada:
- You have lawful status in the United States under Section 289 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. §1359). This provides the legal right to live and work in the United States.
- Recommended documentation include, but are not limited to:
- For those eligible, a letter from the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke confirming at least 50% blood quantum. A copy of this document can be ordered and picked up at Client Based Services at the Kahnawà:ke Service Complex by calling 450-638-0500
- Having your ‘Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS)’ card or the older Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) status card with a red stripe.
- A copy of your birth certificate
- Any government-issued photo ID
If you were born in the United States:
- You are a United States citizen. I.C.E. has no jurisdiction over citizens on immigration matters. However, there have been instances where Indigenous people have been questioned or targeted, making it important to carry clear proof of citizenship.
- Your proof of citizenship:
- Tribal ID (valid legal identification)
- State-issued ID or driver’s license
- U.S. passport
The MCK strongly encourages all community members to keep copies of these documents with them at all times. By doing so, being prepared supports smoother crossings and ensures you can confidently exercise your rights. This notice is not meant to create fear, but to offer education, awareness, and overall reassurance.
The MCK recommends that community members remain respectful and cooperative throughout the interaction and answer only the questions you are asked by I.C.E. officials.
If any issue, concern, or unusual interaction occurs, please inform the MCK as soon as possible. These discussions will then be addressed to the JTBA, which allows us to advocate directly on behalf of Kahnawà:ke and ensure that any recurring challenges or inappropriate conduct are addressed at the federal level.
MCK encourages all travelers to stay informed, stay prepared, and communicate with us so we can continue working to protect the rights and mobility of our people. Meetings and discussions with JTBA, Canada Border Services Agency, and the Department of Homeland Security are ongoing. Updates will be provided at a later date.
