First Nations Media

05/29/2026

Two Mohawk women from Kahnawake are being recognized on one of Canada’s biggest acting stages.

Alex Rice and Kaniehtiio Horn have both been nominated for Outstanding Performance in Film at the 2026 ACTRA (Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television, and Radio Artists) Montreal Awards — a powerful moment not only for Indigenous representation in film, but for the community they were raised in.

In an interview with CityNews Montreal, Alex Rice reflected on her role in Meadowlarks, where she portrayed Marianne, a Cree woman separated from her family during the Sixties Scoop.

“An honour and a blessing to be able to tell our own stories.”

Rice spoke about the importance of Indigenous creatives telling stories from lived experience, adding that the role was one of the most meaningful performances of her career.

Horn is nominated for her leading role in her own directorial debut, Seeds, which follows the story of Ziggy, a social media content creator who leaves her home community only to be summoned back to protect her family's special corn, beans, and squash seeds. via— Eastern Door.

Representation matters. Seeing two Mohawk women recognized at this level is awesome!

(📸 ACTRA Montreal)

05/22/2026

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council has issued a public response following a multi-agency federal law enforcement operation conducted on May 20 at multiple locations in Massena and Akwesasne, stating that while the Tribe does not condone illegal drugs or fi****ms on the Territory, it has “grave concerns” regarding how the operation was carried out.

In a statement released May 21, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council stated,“Obviously, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe does not provide cover and protection for serious crimes committed on the Territory.” The Council further stated, “however, we have grave concerns regarding the disrespectful and deeply offensive breach our longstanding directive to federal agencies on how to appropriately and respectfully enter our territory.”

The Tribal Council said federal authorities failed to follow longstanding law enforcement protocols involving notification and coordination with the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department.
According to the Tribe’s release, the recent federal law enforcement actions, which include ‘raids’ and excessive use of flash bang grenades in homes with children present, at several locations within the boundaries of the Saint Regis Mohawk Reservation— were without adequate notice to the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Chief of Police, Matthew Rourke.

The Tribal Council emphasized that the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department is a fully certified law enforcement agency recognized by both New York State and the federal government. “Our officers sit on both federal and state task forces and have participated in numerous multi-jurisdictional policing operations resulting in the arrest and conviction of drug and arms dealers, human traffickers and others charged with serious state and federal crimes.”

The Council also referenced a June 4, 2025 meeting hosted on the Territory involving the U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, ATF, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and agents from the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Law Enforcement.

According to the statement: “Federal Law enforcement agencies were given a letter outlining the directive that any external agency, federal or state, planning to visit the St. Regis Mohawk Indian Reservation must immediately provide notice to the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police and Tribal Council especially if the purpose is to serve legal papers.”

The federal operation itself, Operation W**d Out, was announced Thursday at a press conference held in Plattsburgh, New York. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York said multiple agencies targeted three unlicensed ma*****na dispensaries in Massena identified as Uncle Crandy’s, V**e Bank/All the Smoke Massena, formerly known as 1 Willow Cannabis Co., and Famous A’s.

“Let this operation serve as a warning,” said John Sarcone, First Assistant United States Attorney. According to the federal release, authorities allege the businesses distributed ma*****na and ma*****na products without obtaining the necessary licenses from New York State and sold products prohibited under state law.

The release also stated that “Famous A’s allegedly sold THC products “that look like candy bars”, Uncle Crandy’s allegedly sold THC gummies “advertised as containing more than 10 times the limit and V**e Bank/All the Smoke Massena allegedly sold ma*****na products “with cartoon labels”. Federal officials also alleged that Uncle Crandy’s and Famous A’s distributed ma*****na to an underage law enforcement officer.

DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent Farhana Islam stated, “This operation resulted in the seizure of over 1000 lbs. of ma*****na and THC related products, 40 pounds of suspected Methamphetamine, cash, and approximately 20 illegal fi****ms, including assault style weapons and fi****ms equipped with extended magazines.”

The federal announcement described the operation as involving the DEA, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Border Patrol, Massena Police Department, St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, and Plattsburgh Police Department. “This operation was more than just seizures,” said Islam. “It’s about securing our Northern Border, protecting our neighbourhoods and targeting those individuals and organizations that threaten the safety and security of our communities.”

Absent from the federal announcement were both the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council.

In its statement, the Tribal Council also referenced prior comments made by Sarcone during meetings with tribal leadership, stating, “You are our partners against criminal actors.” The Council further quoted Sarcone as stating, “we should always be one team, one fight.” In response, the Tribal Council stated, “These statements are wholly contrary to the actions taken yesterday.”
The statement continued, “He completely ignored the Tribe and its police department in this operation nor was he concerned with the safety of the Akwesasne community.”

Massena Mayor Greg Paquin also commented publicly following the operation, stating, “To see the federal authorities step in and get illegal guns and illegal drugs off the street, still plenty more to go, I’m sure, but at least it’s a sign that they’re willing to help us out.”

Notably, the raids also unfolded against the backdrop of longstanding jurisdictional and land claim disputes in the region, including the historic “mile square” claim involving portions of Massena and surrounding territory historically asserted by the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe. The ‘raided dispensaries’ are located within the mile square land claim area of Massena.

The statement also prompted significant discussion on social media among Akwesasne community members, with many commenters on the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s page expressing concern over the operation and the lack of safety and notification to Tribal Police — along with the disrespect for tribal sovereignty by federal agencies and neighbouring communities.

The Tribe says the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Department and federal and state law enforcement agencies have spent years developing working relationships based on mutual respect and accountability. “Failure on the part of federal law enforcement of the United States Department of Justice to follow the long-accepted protocol to provide our Chief of Police with adequate notice of yesterday’s law enforcement actions has jeopardized these relationships.”

Regan Jacobs — Executive Media Producer

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.