Letter to the editor:

On June 19th, 2009 the Haudenosaunne Clan mothers attended a Children’s Aid Society (CAS) meeting being held at the Native Services Branch (NSB) in the G.R.E.A.T. building. A statement was presented on behalf of the Clan Mothers to remind the visitors of the traditional role of the Clan Mothers and to advise the visitors and the staff of CAS/NSB the Clan Mothers to the best of their knowledge have not been consulted regarding any child welfare issues.

The statement provided a list of concerns from community members and former employees that have been brought to the attention of the Clan Mothers and ignored by CAS at all levels including and up to the Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS). This statement also addressed the issues and legislation related to Native Child Welfare and Bill 210. The statement was completed with an invitation to Andrew Koster Brant CAS, Mike Nolan and Lorraine Graham (MCSS) to attend the Grand River Territory and discuss Child Welfare issue with the Clan Mothers. To date there has been no response from any of these persons.

July 4 2009 Confederacy Council agreed to provide the Clan mothers a letter of support. The Council agreed “since time immemorial the responsibility is, and always has been, to protect and nurture the future generations of our people. This letter further verifies that the Chiefs and Clan Mothers have come together of one mind for the purposes of protecting the children of our clans and nations.” At that time the Council was also informed that any correspondence from CAS must be addressed directly to Gwen Styres and will require the signature of the Executive Director Andrew Koster to be considered valid.

The Clan Mothers would like to have any correspondence and documents, photocopies, (customary care agreements, letters, service agreements) presented to them regarding any child welfare issues or experiences by any Six Nations community members. Please be advised the Clan Mothers will not accept legal court documents at this time.

If you would like to set up a meeting please do so via the methods provided below and be advised there will be time limits so everyone has a chance to be heard.

If you prefer you can send any documents/letters/customary care agreements to either of these addresses;

Haudenosaunne Child Services

2144 Onondaga Road (mailbox on the side of building)

PO Box 436, Ohsweken OR email: childwelfare2009@hotmail.com

We look forward to your sharing of your information with us. Nia:weh