RCMP CORNWALL DETACHMENT UNVEILS LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT PLAQUE HONORING AKWESASNE TERRITORY

On September 24, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Cornwall Detachment unveiled a Land Acknowledgement Plaque recognizing the territory of the Kanien’kehá:ka people. The plaque, designed and crafted by Akwesasro:non artist Ian Clute of Two House Design-Crafters, reflects the deep cultural heritage and enduring connection of the Mohawk people to this land.

Grand Chief Leonard Lazore attended the unveiling to share his support and reflections on the significance of this acknowledgement for the Akwesasne community. Deputy Commander, Chief Superintendent Leather, and Border Integrity Officer in Charge, Superintendent Foote, also traveled from London, Ontario to participate in the ceremony. Their attendance demonstrates the RCMP’s broader commitment to reconciliation and to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities.

During the event, RCMP Inspector Etienne Thauvette, Officer in Charge of the Cornwall Detachment, emphasized the importance of truth and reconciliation, acknowledging the RCMP’s historic role in the painful legacy faced by Indigenous communities. He reaffirmed the RCMP’s commitment to building respectful relationships, improving services for Indigenous peoples, and ensuring that Indigenous voices remain central to their work.

As part of the ceremony, the RCMP presented Grand Chief Lazore with a Tree of Peace, honoring the Haudenosaunee teachings of unity and peace. In return, Grand Chief Lazore presented the RCMP with a pouch of tobacco, sharing a part of Kanien’kehá:ka culture as a gesture of respect and reciprocity.

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne acknowledges this step as a meaningful gesture and looks forward to continued dialogue and relationship-building between Akwesasne and the RCMP.

Nia:wenkó:wa to Akwesasro:non artist Ian Clute for his contributions, and to all who took part in this important event.