SUPPORTING KANIEN’KÉHA LANGUAGE: MCA DONATES TO IONKWAHRONKHA’ONHÁTIE’

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne proudly presented a cheque to Chelsea Sunday of Ionkwahronkha’onhátie’ in the amount of $336,135 in support of their Kanien’kéha language revitalization initiatives.

Ionkwahronkha’onhátie’, meaning “We are becoming fluent”, is a grassroots language group in Akwesasne dedicated to revitalizing the Kanien’kéha language through adult immersion programming, mentorship, and community-based learning. The group plays a vital role in creating fluent speakers, nurturing cultural pride, and restoring language as a living part of daily life in the community.

The funding comes from the First Nations Child & Family Services (FNCFS) Settlement and will help strengthen efforts to preserve and promote Kanien’kéha. With this support, Ionkwahronkha’onhátie’ can continue to grow its programming and increase access to quality language instruction for future generations.

“Council is proud to support language revitalization efforts, recognizing that our language is the heart of our identity, culture, and worldview. By investing in its resurgence, we honour our ancestors and empower future generations to carry our words forward with strength and pride,” said Grand Chief.

This donation highlights a shared commitment to language, culture, and healing, ensuring that Kanien’kéha not only survives, but thrives for generations to come.