First Nations Media

01/17/2026

With ICE Concerns Rising in Northern New York, Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Urges Akwesasne Community to Know Their Rights

AKWESASNE — As concerns increase across Northern New York regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department(SRMTPD) are encouraging community members to understand their rights when traveling outside of Akwesasne and to rely on verified information.

Tribal officials emphasize that, at this time, ICE and other outside federal agencies are not permitted to enter Akwesasne without proper authorization from the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council and SRMTPD Chief of Police Matthew Rourke. A cooperative agreement remains in place with federal, state, and local agencies, and established protocols continue to be followed.

In addition to sharing the “Know Your Rights” information, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department issued a media release addressing misinformation and community safety. The statement was issued in collaboration with the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service(AMPS).

“We understand that members of our community act out of concern for one another. At the same time, it is critical that speculation or unverified claims do not override facts.”

The release also emphasized that “Sharing unconfirmed information can create unnecessary fear, confusion, and disruption for the community.”

To help maintain safety and trust, the SRMTPD are asking everyone to:
• Rely on official statements from the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police, Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service, or other verified sources.
• Avoid sharing or repeating unverified claims, especially on social media.
• Consider the impact of unverified information on individuals, families, and the broader community.
• Recognize the role each of us plays in ensuring the physical, emotional, and reputational wellbeing of those around us.

“We appreciate the vigilance and care of the public. We are working diligently together to share accurate and timely information when possible. Your support in reporting accurate, fact-based information helps us keep the community safe and united. Together, we can ensure that our responses are guided by facts, not fear.” — SRMTPD

Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe says “Know Your Rights”.

At Home
• Do not open the door without a warrant signed by a judge
• Ask officers to slide the warrant under the door
• You have the right to remain silent and to refuse searches

At Work or in Public
• ICE may be present in public spaces but needs a warrant to enter private areas
• Ask if you are free to leave; you are not required to answer questions
• Tribal or state-issued identification is valid

Minors & If Detained
• Carry Minor IDs at all times, especially when traveling off the territory
• Minors have the same rights as adults
• Remain silent and ask for a lawyer and an interpreter
• Do not sign anything without legal advice

The Tribe notes that awareness and preparation are key, particularly for community members who may encounter ICE officers while off territory.

Community members are encouraged to contact Tribal Police if they have questions or concerns at (518) 358-9200.

Regan Jacobs — Executive Media Producer, First Nations Media

12/20/2025

But in a stinging rebuke to the suit’s architect, tribal leader Clint Halftown, the panel awarded the defendants nearly $1.2 million in damages for what it deemed an overzealous police raid, effectively turning the tables on the plaintiffs.

Jury delivers mixed verdict in Cayuga Nation’s civil suit against to***co retailer By Staff Reporter December 16, 2025 SYRACUSE, N.Y.—In a courtroom drama that laid bare the bitter fissures within one of New York’s smallest Native American nations, a federal jury on Thursday handed the Cayuga ...

12/19/2025

STATE SENATOR CALLS FOR ACCOUNTABILITY FOLLOWING SALMON RIVER “TIME-OUT BOX” REVELATIONS

ALBANY — New York State Senator Dan Stec has issued a public statement condemning the use of a so-called “time-out box” on special needs students at Salmon River Central School District, calling the actions “utterly unacceptable” and urging a full investigation and accountability.

In a statement released Dec. 19, Senator Stec said he was “appalled” after learning of the situation and immediately contacted local and state officials. He confirmed ongoing communication with Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Chief Michael Conners and New York State Education Commissioner Betty Rosa.

Stec stated that the New York State Department of Education has taken “immediate, decisive action,” and said he was reassured by Commissioner Rosa that a thorough investigation will take place.

“The use of restraint and seclusion in schools should not have ever happened,” Stec said, adding that accountability is necessary.

The senator’s comments come amid mounting scrutiny of Salmon River CSD following multiple public meetings, community testimony, and statements from Tribal leadership calling for transparency and corrective action.

Earlier this week, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council formally urged the Salmon River Board of Education to issue a vote of no confidence in district leadership, citing concerns over student safety, oversight failures, and systemic issues within the district.

Community members, parents, and advocates have continued to demand answers regarding how the enclosure was constructed, approved, and used, particularly involving vulnerable students.

State officials have not yet released details on the scope or timeline of the investigation. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

First Nations Media Staff

12/19/2025

Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council Calls for Vote of No Confidence Following Allegations at Salmon River Schools

AKWESASNE — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council has formally called on the Salmon River Central School District Board of Education to issue a vote of no confidence in Superintendent Dr. Stanley Harper, following allegations that wooden “time-out” or seclusion boxes were constructed and used at district schools.

In a letter addressed to the Board of Education, Tribal Council cited concerns for student safety and district leadership, particularly as it relates to Mohawk students attending Salmon River schools.

“We strongly urge you to immediately and expeditiously issue a formal declaration of a vote of no confidence in the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Stanley Harper,” the letter states. “We have no faith in District leadership, and the recent actions show gross mismanagement and broad operational failures to address student and educator needs”.

According to information shared with First Nations Media, the matter came to public attention after teachers within the school district shared photographs of the wooden boxes with a community member known for advocating on behalf of local children. Those images were later circulated more broadly via social media, prompting community concern and calls for accountability.

Parents and community members addressed the Board of Education during its December 17 meeting, questioning when district leadership first became aware of the boxes, how many were built, and whether they were used on students.

Superintendent Harper confirmed during the meeting that three boxes were constructed and that two were used. He stated he was aware of the boxes for approximately three weeks prior to the issue becoming public and said the structures were dismantled and removed.

Some parents expressed concern that the removal of the boxes could interfere with potential investigations. Others raised broader concerns about student safety and oversight within the district.

During the meeting, one board member stated that the boxes were intended for use by “any child, not just special education students,” a comment that drew strong reactions from parents in attendance.

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police have confirmed they are investigating allegations that a special-needs student was placed inside a box. Community members have stated that more than one child may have been subjected to the practice.

The Salmon River Central School District Board of Education has since announced the launch of an independent investigation, to be conducted by an external law firm beginning December 18. The Board also confirmed it is cooperating with an investigation by the New York State Education Department (NYSED).

Superintendent Harper has been reassigned to home duties pending the outcome of the investigation. Salmon River Director of Special Education Allen Gravell, St. Regis Mohawk School Principal Alison Benedict, and elementary school teacher Karrie Haverstock have been placed on administrative leave.

NYSED’s Office of Special Education is expected to conduct a monitoring site visit to confirm the removal of all boxes and ensure that any calming spaces used by students comply with state regulations.

In its letter, Tribal Council also called for an independent investigation and requested access to an unredacted report of the findings.

“Our collective position remains that there is no resolving this with the continued involvement of current District leadership,” the letter states. “Trust has been broken with the community.”

Tribal leaders have also issued public notices urging community members to refrain from aggressive or threatening communications toward staff and students, noting that multiple investigations are ongoing and that updates will be limited to avoid interference with those processes.

Board of Education President Jason Brockway issued a statement expressing regret and apologizing to students, families, and the community.

“The circumstances surrounding these allegations do not reflect the values and standards of care that guide this district,” Brockway said, adding that the Board is committed to accountability and corrective action based on the findings of the investigations.

Out of caution, Salmon River schools shifted to remote learning on December 18 and 19 to allow the investigation to begin.

The situation has drawn widespread attention locally and online. Investigations remain ongoing.

First Nations TV will continue to report as more information becomes available.

By— First Nations Media Staff

12/19/2025

Salmon River educators placed on leave over allegations that students were locked in box

The Salmon River Central School District Board of Education has launched an investigation into the conduct of school administrators following allegations of student mistreatment in the district.

Earlier this week, the board was made aware of allegations from parents concerning restraint and seclusion in the form of wooden boxes used as calming stations at district schools.

The board has now launched an independent investigation to be conducted by a law firm beginning Thursday, Dec. 18, to objectively review the circumstances. The board says “it is also cooperating with a New York State Department of Education (NYSED) investigation.
After learning of the allegations, the board at its Dec. 17 meeting reassigned Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stanley Harper to home duties pending the full investigation.”

Salmon River Director of Special Education Allen Gravell, St. Regis Mohawk School Principal Alison Benedict and elementary school teacher Karrie Haverstock were placed on administrative leave by the district until further notice.

The board has also been informed that representatives from the NYSED Office of Special Education will be conducting a monitoring site visit this week to confirm the removal of all boxes. NYSED will also conduct a subsequent site visit to ensure alternative appropriate calming spaces are available for students that comply with state regulations.

The entire Salmon River Central School District Board of Education wishes to express its deepest regret for the situation, and vows to support meaningful, actionable changes to ensure that situations like this never occur again.

“The Board of Education extends its sincere apology to our students, families, and community members who have been deeply affected by the ongoing situation. We recognize the pain, concern, and distress these events have caused, and we are truly sorry for the harm and trauma this has resulted for our community,” said Board President Jason Brockway.

“We want to be clear: the circumstances surrounding these allegations do not reflect the values and standards of care that guide this district. The Board of Education is committed to ensuring that every student is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion, and that our schools are safe, supportive environments for all learners. We acknowledge how this situation has evoked very deep emotions. We understand that for many in our community this incident has reopened historical wounds and trauma connected to the mistreatment of Native Children. We hear you. We are humbled by the public response, and we feel the pain and fear expressed by our community.”

Brockway said this investigation will be thorough, impartial, and taken with the utmost seriousness and the district will fully cooperate with the NYSED investigation.

“The Board is fully committed to accountability and to implementing corrective actions as warranted by the findings. We will continue to keep the community informed throughout the investigation process, recognizing that rebuilding trust requires sustained action, not words alone,” Brockway said.

Out of an abundance of caution for student and staff safety, classes at Salmon River schools shifted to remote learning for Dec. 18 and 19 to allow time for the investigation to begin.

09/11/2025

Child Welfare Investigation Leads to Arrest Warrant in Akwesasne

AKWESASNE — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police have issued a wanted poster for Autumn C. Mitchell, 30, who is facing 31 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

The public notice, released on 9/11/25, describes Mitchell as 5’4” tall, with brown hair and brown eyes. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police at 518-358-9200. Police emphasized that individuals should not attempt to take action on their own, and tips should not be posted on social media.

Connection to Ongoing Investigation

This announcement comes as a follow-up to the ongoing investigation into allegations of abuse at the Tribe’s Early Learning Center’s Head Start Program. As reported by FNM in July, parents raised concerns about suspected mistreatment, which prompted a community meeting with Tribal leadership, the Education Department, and the Tribal Police.

Legal Context

In the United States, Endangering the Welfare of a Child is a charge that can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on circumstances:
• Misdemeanor charges can carry fines, probation, or up to one year in jail per count.
• Felony-level charges may result in longer prison sentences, in some jurisdictions up to seven years per count.
• Courts determine whether sentences run concurrently (together) or consecutively (back-to-back), which can greatly affect the outcome.

Authorities have not released additional details about the specific allegations leading to the 31 counts filed against Mitchell.

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police reiterated that child safety remains a top priority and encouraged community members to bring forward any information directly to law enforcement.

—FNTV Staff

09/07/2025

Noah Snyder Remembered as Scholar, Athlete, and Haudenosaunee Lacrosse Player After Fatal Crash

The lacrosse world is mourning the loss of Noah Snyder, a 20-year-old sophomore at Marquette University and proud Haudenosaunee lacrosse player from the Seneca Nation in New York, who was killed in a car crash Friday night in Milwaukee.

A statement was released by the Seneca Nation via Facebook — “The Seneca Nation wishes to extend our heartfelt condolences and support to the family, friends, and teammates of Noah Snyder. Our entire community mourns this loss with you. We are all heartbroken by this tragedy. We wish you a peaceful journey Noah as you travel to be with the Creator in the Spirit World.”

Police said a driver struck a vehicle carrying six passengers near the intersection of North 27th Street and West St. Paul Avenue. Snyder and fellow student-athlete Scott Michaud died at the scene. The 41-year-old driver was taken into custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

At Marquette, Snyder was more than a standout on the field. A business major in the College of Business Administration, he balanced academics with athletics, earning recognition on the BIG EAST All-Academic Team for maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher. In the 2025 season, he appeared in 13 of the team’s 14 games, recording nine goals and seven assists.

But his identity extended far beyond campus. Snyder proudly carried the traditions of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, representing his people on the international stage as a member of the Haudenosaunee Nationals U20 team. In that role, he honored the game known as the “Creator’s Game,” a sport that has spiritual and cultural meaning stretching back centuries.

The Haudenosaunee Nationals released a statement honoring Snyder, saying he represented the values and traditions of his people “with grace and dignity.”

Closer to home, Snyder was remembered for his roots in Western New York lacrosse. A former player for the Jr. Bandits, the program called him “always part of our family,” praising his kindness and passion for the sport.

Marquette University also released a statement:

“The two students were Noah Snyder and Scott Michaud, both student-athletes on the lacrosse team. Both Noah and Scott were strong students, being named to the BIG EAST All-Academic Team at Marquette for maintaining a 3.0 grade point average.”

For those who knew him, Snyder’s life embodied a balance of dedication—to his studies, his teammates, and the Haudenosaunee heritage that gave meaning to the game he loved. His loss is deeply felt not only by his family and community, but by the wider lacrosse family and relatives across Turtle Island.

— FNTV

08/31/2025

Snake Island Muskies Capture the President’s Cup!

Whitby, ON — August 30, 2025 — History has been made! The Snake Island Muskies are officially the 2025 President’s Cup Champions, defeating the Brooklin Merchants in a commanding 11–5 victory tonight.

After a week of intense competition, the Muskies capped off their undefeated run with grit, speed, and unstoppable teamwork. From nail-biting comebacks to dominant wins, they proved why they are one of the toughest Senior B teams in the country.

This marks the first-ever President’s Cup national title for Snake Island — a victory that will be remembered for years to come in Akwesasne and across Turtle Island.

Congratulations, Snake Island Muskies — national champions at last!

— FNTV Staff

08/30/2025

Opioid Settlement Funds— From the Courtroom to the Community as Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe looks to Akwesasne for Solutions

The opioid epidemic has touched nearly every family in Akwesasne, leaving behind health struggles, child welfare cases, and lasting impacts on community safety. Now, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council is opening the door for local non-profits to help turn that painful history into pathways for healing.

According to a release issued by the Tribe, the Council announced it is now accepting proposals for Fiscal Year 2026 Tribal Opioid Settlement funds, which are reserved for programs that not only address the epidemic but also explore solutions that are rooted in Mohawk culture.

The funds come from national settlements with opioid manufacturers and distributors, following the Tribe’s lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in December 2018. The complaint argued the companies carried out “a scheme to make individuals believe that prescription opioids were safe, non-addictive, and could be used without long-term effects.” The alleged deception fueled an epidemic that “ravaged tribal communities,” the Tribe said.

For Akwesasne, that meant more than statistics — it meant seeing firsthand the toll on families. In response, the Tribe says it has built strategies to keep opioids away from youth, expanded community education, and supported prevention and recovery initiatives.

Since 2023, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe has received $1,800,730.87 in settlement funds, with additional distributions expected annually until 2037. According to the Council, “in accordance with settlement terms, the funds received shall support programs on an approved list of abatement strategies; and also, for culturally appropriate activities that are aimed at remediating the opioid epidemic’s impact on the Akwesasne community.”

The Council also emphasized that “the terms recognize that tribal communities possess unique cultural practices that play an important role in the health and wellbeing of tribal members.”

To be eligible for funding, organizations must agree to conditions such as submitting annual reports, maintaining financial records, acknowledging the Tribe’s support, and sharing progress directly with Tribal members at Monthly Meetings.

Proposals for the 2026 funding year (January 1–December 31, 2026) are due by September 30, 2025.

By: Regan Jacobs, Executive Media Producer — First Nations Media.

(Photo Credit: Cornwall Standard Freeholder - archived photo from the Grand opening of SRMT Community Services Building)

08/29/2025

AKWESASNE — The community came together Saturday afternoon at the A’nowara’kó:wa Arena to mark three decades of memories, milestones, and moments that have defined this cornerstone of Akwesasne life.

The 30th-anniversary celebration was both festive and heartfelt. Indoors, dignitaries, athletes, and families gathered for a formal ceremony. Outdoors, the grounds were alive with carnival games, athletic competitions, and children’s laughter—fitting tributes to a facility that has long brought people together.

“It’s been an amazing 30 years,” said master of ceremonies and Akwesasne Lacrosse Hall of Fame member Peter Garrow. “This arena has been a gem for lacrosse and hockey in this area.”

Known affectionately as the Turtle Dome, the 3,000-seat multi-purpose arena has hosted everything from lacrosse and hockey to powwows, concerts, skate nights, and even professional teams. The Akwesasne Warriors of the Federal Hockey League called the arena home from 2010–12, while box lacrosse legend John Tavares once thrilled crowds here playing with the Akwesasne Thunder of Major Series Lacrosse.

Saturday’s formal program paid special tribute to the late Jay Benedict, the visionary project lead whose determination in the mid-1990s made the arena a reality. A memorial plaque unveiled in his honor recognized his leadership as Director of Technical Services and his role in guiding planning, funding, and construction—work that ensured opportunities for future generations.

“This building is here because of the hard work of the people who are sitting here at the podium,” said Grand Chief Leonard Lazore of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. Addressing a crowd that included young hockey and lacrosse players, Lazore reflected on Benedict’s legacy: “We’re celebrating the lasting impact he had—his dedication, his resilience, and his humour.”

Other speakers included former arena manager Geraldine Jacobs and former grand chiefs Russell Roundpoint and Mike Mitchell, each of whom highlighted the vision and effort that carried the project forward.

Over the years, the Turtle Dome has seen its share of triumphs and challenges. It twice hosted the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (2002, 2003), and survived a 2018 fire that temporarily closed its doors. That same year, nearly $1 million in upgrades modernized the arena with a new scoreboard, LED lighting, expanded concessions, and a major chiller system. More recently, the grounds expanded with the 2022 opening of the Akwesasne Skatepark.

The celebration wasn’t just about the past—it looked ahead too. Just last week, the arena hosted a five-day youth dance camp blending creativity and cultural learning. And this fall, a new team, the Akwesasne Wild, will begin play in the Northern Premier Hockey League, adding a fresh chapter to the arena’s growing story.

For 30 years, the A’nowara’kó:wa Arena has been more than just a building. It has been a gathering place, a stage for history, and a symbol of community pride. As the celebration showed, its legacy continues to grow—shaped by the people who call the Turtle Dome home.

By: FNTV Staff

08/25/2025

Kahnawake Hunters Win First-Ever Founders Cup Championship (Read full story below)

The Kahnawake Hunters have made history, capturing their first-ever Founders Cup championship and establishing themselves as one of Canada’s top Junior B lacrosse teams.

Their undefeated tournament run featured four straight wins against teams from across Turtle Island, including the Mountainview Mavericks (13–9), Nova Scotia Privateers (20–6), Seneca WarChiefs (10–5), and Calgary Shamrocks (12–6).

The tournament, hosted at the 7 Chiefs Sportsplex and Jim Starlight Centre on the Tsuut’ina First Nation, came to a dramatic close with a tense championship game between the Coquitlam Adanacs and the Kahnawake Hunters. Early on, it looked like the Adanacs had the edge, taking a 4–2 lead in the second period. But the momentum quickly shifted as the Hunters found their rhythm. The game ended in a commanding 9–4 victory for Kahnawake, sealing their undefeated run with a powerful comeback performance.

This win represents more than a national title—it carries deep significance for the Mohawk community of Kahnawake. Lacrosse holds powerful cultural and spiritual meaning in Indigenous communities, and the Hunters’ success on the national stage reflects their commitment to honoring and continuing that tradition.

The Kahnawake Hunters were founded in 2009 to create opportunities for local players to compete beyond the minor lacrosse level. Before the team’s formation, athletes often had to leave the community to pursue Junior B lacrosse elsewhere. By entering the Ontario Junior B Lacrosse League, the Hunters created a space for Indigenous players to grow and compete while remaining grounded in their community and culture.

The Kahnawake Hunters’ Founders Cup victory marks a proud and unforgettable moment for the team and their community—a reflection of years of dedication, growth, and connection to the game’s Indigenous roots. As they look ahead to the 2026 Ontario Junior B Lacrosse League season, set to begin in the spring, the Hunters carry the confidence of champions. Fans can also anticipate next year’s Founders Cup, which will be held in Saint John, New Brunswick, at Harbour Station in August 2026.

By: Kassidy Jacobs, Journalist — First Nations Media Network