HONOURING OUR ISTAS

- May 10, 2026

In celebration of Mother’s Day, the Akwesasne Child & Family Services team hosted a special Honouring Our Istas event on Thursday, May 7 at the Kana:takon Recreation Center. The evening brought together mothers, children, and families for a heartwarming night filled with laughter, creativity, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones.

The atmosphere throughout the evening was filled with smiles, meaningful conversations, and the joy of seeing families come together to celebrate the important role mothers and caregivers play within our community. Guests enjoyed a variety of hands-on activities and wellness experiences thoughtfully prepared by staff and community partners.

Attendees were treated to relaxing chair massages provided by Mya Tarbell Buffham, while the ACFS Traditional Support team handed out all-natural healthy teas, hand salves, and lice repellent for attendees to take home and enjoy. Creativity flourished as participants learned the art of corn husk flower making with guidance from Iawentas Nanticoke.

Families also had the opportunity to visit a special photo station hosted by Babes Thompson, where mothers and their loved ones captured precious memories together. Children also enjoyed creating personalized photo frames with the Akwesasne Zero 2 Six team, while the MCA Community Health – Healthy Babies Program provided DIY flower planters for families to create and take home as a special gift for mom.

The evening was a beautiful reminder of the strength, love, and care that mothers and caregivers bring into the lives of their families every day. Nia:wen to the Akwesasne Child & Family Services team, along with all those who helped make this evening such a memorable success.

To all the incredible mothers, grandmothers, aunties, and caregivers in our community — we wish you a very Happy Mother’s Day!