COMMUNITY SAFETY DURING PLANNED PEACEFUL PROTEST
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) is aware that community members are planning a peaceful protest on Thursday, October 1, 2026, regarding the Government of Canada’s decision to permit designated United States Customs and Border Protection officers to transit through Canadian waters within Akwesasne while carrying secured firearms.
The planned protest is being organized by community members and is not an MCA-organized, sponsored or sanctioned event.
MCA recognizes the concerns being expressed by community members regarding the Ministerial Order and its implementation. MCA’s position remains unchanged, and Council continues to oppose the presence of armed U.S. enforcement officers within Akwesasne’s Canadian waters.
MCA has established a working group mandated to develop an Akwesasne border security framework. The framework will recognize Akwesasne’s right to govern the waters within our jurisdiction and will work toward an approach to border security that reflects the needs, safety and jurisdiction of the Akwesasne community.
Community members who choose to participate in the protest are asked to remain peaceful and respectful of others on the water and in the surrounding area. The Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service (AMPS) will be present to ensure public safety, and participants are asked to follow any direction provided by police.
MCA will continue to advocate for Akwesasne’s jurisdiction, community safety, and meaningful involvement in decisions affecting our territory and waterways.