JOINT STATEMENT FROM THE SAINT REGIS MOHAWK TRIBAL COUNCIL AND MOHAWK COUNCIL OF AKWESASNE ON THE NYPA PROPOSED ADVANCED NUCLEAR POWER PROJECT POTENTIAL SITE

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne issue the following joint statement in response to RFQ Number Q25-7715JC, Community to Host NYPA’s Advanced Nuclear Power Project: 

“In the absence of support from our membership and community, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne will not provide support for the development of a nuclear power plant at any location near the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory,” stated the Councils. 

Historically, Akwesasne has not been adequately considered in industrial development projects. The failure to engage in this consultation has resulted in long-term environmental damage, health concerns, and a justified legacy of distrust. The Councils assert their inherent sovereignty and affirm that meaningful consultation must occur before any decisions or commitments are advanced. The protection of Akwesasne lands, waters, and people is non-negotiable, and these failures will not be repeated. 

Given the close proximity of the proposed project to Akwesasne and Tribal lands, which includes the Massena Mile Square and Grasse River Meadows, and recognizing the potential impacts associated with nuclear development, the Councils have requested a formal consultation process directly with the New York Power Authority (NYPA), separate from the public comment process. 

“Direct consultation is necessary to ensure that all potential risks, benefits, and broader implications of the proposed project are fully evaluated and clearly understood by Akwesasro:non. It is essential for our community to make an informed decision rooted in transparency, respect, and meaningful engagement. We remain cautious regarding any new industrial development that may pose risks to the health, safety, and overall well-being of our people,” the Councils stated. 

The Councils are aware that individuals have proposed the former General Motors Superfund Site, now under the Revitalizing Auto Communities Environmental Response (RACER) Trust, as a potential location. The Councils have received formal communication from RACER stating: “While the RACER Trust takes no position on nuclear energy generally, it is our position that a nuclear power plant should not be sited on the RACER property.” 

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne will continue to prioritize the health, safety, and sovereignty of the Akwesasne community and will provide updates as additional information becomes available.