HONORING OUR LANGUAGE AND CULTURE WITH TRADITIONAL MEDICINES PROGRAM

The totas at Tsiionkwanonhso:te Long-Term Care Facility were gifted a truly special day filled with culture, connection, smiles, and laughter, thanks to special guests from the MCA Traditional Medicines Program and the wonderful visit from our friends at the Akwesasne Freedom School.

Students Watio’kenhonti, Teiohsontathe, Yakeyale, and Shayes shared the beauty and energy of the Smoke Dance, accompanied by Johnson Jimerson on the water drum. Their performance brought smiles, pride, and a deep sense of cultural connection to everyone in the room!

Following the performances, Levi Herne, Jasmine Jimerson, and Johnson Jimerson, Cultural Practitioners with the Traditional Medicines Program, hosted a Cultural Connections & Conversations session during lunch. The elders gathered to share stories entirely in the Mohawk language, filling the space with laughter, memories, and heartfelt moments. One of our totas took the opportunity to reconnect with old lacrosse teammates, sharing stories from their playing days and reminding us all of the strong bonds that tie our community together.

The visit was deeply enjoyed and appreciated by the totas, who welcomed the chance to engage with our language, traditions, and youth in such a meaningful way. Nia:wen to the Traditional Medicines Program and the Akwesasne Freedom School for creating a memorable and uplifting day that honoured our elders and celebrated who we are as Akwesasró:non.