Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

On Tuesday, July 1, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe held their Inauguration Ceremony for incumbents, Chief Ron LaFrance and Sub-Chief Michael Connors. The ceremony was held in front of the former IGA building under promising sunny skies and a brisk summer breeze.

The Swearing In ceremony was attended by a number of dignitaries from surrounding communities and counties. They included: Karen St. Hilaire, St. Lawrence County Administrator; Michael Maneely, Village of Malone Trustee; Billy Jones, Chairman of the Franklin County Legislature; Mary Scharf and Louise Taylor, Town of Malone Council; and Gordon Crossman, Franklin County Legislator.

The ceremony was emceed by the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe's Director of Communications Allyson Doctor. After a short welcoming by Ms. Doctor, Rakwirahes Pembleton recited the Ohen:ton Karihwatehkwen (Thanksgiving Address). Honored guest, Chief Brian David of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne offered words of support and mentioned the old adage, "if it isn't broken, don't fix it", in regards to the incumbency of Chief Ron LaFrance and Sub-Chief Mike Connors.

Sub-Chief Eric Thompson spoke on behalf of Chief Paul Thompson, citing the strong characteristics of both. "Ron provides perspective from community members; Michael has a keen analytical mind."  Chief Beverly Cook spoke of their integrity and how they have, "opened their homes and their hearts," (in reference to their strong family values). "This speaks to their integrity and where their interests really lie in our future."

 Chief Judge P.J. Herne presided over the actual swearing in of Chief LaFrance and Sub Chief Connors. Newly sworn in LaFrance and Connors gave homage to the daily support and guidance their respective families give of themselves. The Oath of Office was delivered by Chief Judge P.J. Herne.

In Chief LaFrance's address as a newly sworn in chief he immediately remarked how it is an honor to have served the community of Akwesasne as Tribal Chief for the past nine years, and he looks forward to serving for the next three. He thanked his children; Kanientatiesa, Kaniehtine, Ryanne and Ariyah for their support when he has to be away from them, dealing with his frustrations, and acknowledged without their commitment to each other, he wouldn't be where he is today. He gave thanks to his mother for everything she taught him and noted, "It isn't a bad thing to be a mama's boy." Speaking directly to his wife, he remarked, "you are the greatest person I know, and the dedication to our children and the family we have built together, words cannot describe."

Chief LaFrance then turned to the future and he believes Akwesasne is headed in the right direction, "diversifying our economy is a commitment this Council takes very seriously and has committed to exploring new ventures that will create jobs and build a viable and healthier economy. There are opportunities in alternative and renewable energy projects that I would like to see the Tribe venture with the local business community to spur growth and jobs."

LaFrance made a pledge to Council to look at how the Tribe does business with local businesses and noted how every dollar earned in any community gets turned over 7 times. "Our local businesses are the backbone of our economy and we as a Tribal Council need to ensure that they not only survive, but thrive."

Chief LaFrance noted the MOU between the Tribe and the State; that being able to purchase our land back is most important in a judicial process that only recognizes procedure and precedent and leave out, "honor and tradition".

In closing, Chief LaFrance "looks forward to the day when all the things that divide us will one day unite us. A day when we all know our neighbors by name, and where our children and the streets are safe again. This is why we are all here, to leave Akwesasne a better place for our children and grandchildren."

Incumbent Ron LaFrance stands before Chief Judge PJ Herne to take his oath of office as Chief for the St. Regis Mohawk Tribal Council. Photo by Kaniethonkie.

Sub Chief Michael Connors' inaugural speech described the challenges while being on council and "how some days in council are better than others." He talked of past achievements both great and small, from helping a community member work with the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Native Recruitment office, to delivering winter coats to local schools and day care centers, to delivering testimony in Albany at the NY State Senate Committee on State-Native American Relations summit regarding the benefits of gaming to the local area economy. Sub Chief Connors focused on how working together benefits everyone, citing the most recent initiative of turning the former IGA building into a "family entertainment center." He also took time to give thanks to the many people who organized the event, Annie Bero, Allyson Doctor, Betty Roundpoint, Aimee Benedict, Alyson Cole and Lilly McDonald, the local vendors, Big E's Catering, Blooming Beauty, Cook's Greenery, Cakes by Andrea Cook, Sanitation Solutions, AMCR and Foster's Tent Rental.

In closing he also gave thanks to members of Council, and to the Casino, and acknowledged their dedication and he, "looks forward to the making the next three years even better". Sub Chief Connors stated, "Together, we are all working toward building a better tomorrow for all of Akwesasne".