ENIETHIHSWANÓN:NA, AKWESASNE CHILD RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES LAW ACCEPTED IN PRINCIPLE

The Working Task Group (WTG) for the Akwesasne Child Rights and Responsibilities Law, Eniethihswanón:na, is preparing to begin Phase III: Community Consultation. To meet Akwesasne Legislative Enactment Procedural Regulation (ALEPR) requirements, the WTG will first share a recorded summary of the law on CKON 97.3 FM.  

Following the broadcast, the group plans to carry out extensive community outreach with members both on and off territory. As this law will impact all Akwesasró:non, it is important that it reflects the community’s collective voice. These consultations are intended to hear the community’s comments, concerns, and suggestions on the current draft, helping the WTG identify what is working, where changes are needed, and how to revise the law so it truly represents the community. The WTG hopes to hear from a wide range of stakeholders—especially youth, elders, and language speakers—to help guide discussions and support the revitalization of our language within the law. 

The development of Eniethihswanón:na began in 2019 after it was identified as a priority through Akwesasne’s annual law priority survey. This process, carried out by the Department of Justice and the Oversight Committee on Legislative Development, guides the creation of community‑driven laws. 

The initiative was also influenced by Canada’s federal Bill C‑92, which affirms the right of First Nations to exercise jurisdiction over child and family services when supported by their own child protection law. While the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne has long exercised this responsibility through Akwesasne Child & Family Services, this work represents the first formal legislation of its kind. 

The law was developed under Phase I: Development, Amendment, or Repeal of Proposed Akwesasne Law of the ALEPR, with a focus on reflecting Akwesasne’s cultural values and inherent responsibility to protect its children. The drafting process was informed through engagement with community members, including social workers, educators, parents, youth, Elders, and language speakers. 

Following a legal review completed in early 2025, revisions were incorporated and the draft was presented to Council for two line‑by‑line reviews. These reviews led to the law’s Phase II: Acceptance in Principle, allowing the process to move forward to community consultation. 

Community feedback during Phase III will continue to play an important role in shaping the final version of the law as it progresses toward enactment. 

Community members who wish to review the full draft of the Akwesasne Child Rights and Responsibilities Law may request a copy by emailing alyson.thompson@akwesasne.ca or emily.king@akwesasne.ca. Physical copies are also available at the Akwesasne Justice Department, 45 Johnson Rd., Kaná:takon, or by calling (613) 575‑5000.