Category Archives: Land / Turtle Island

Book Review: Great Law v. Handsome Lake Code

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“THE ON-GOING CONFUSION BETWEEN
THE GREAT LAW AND THE HANDSOME LAKE CODE”

MNN. Oct. 28, 2007. MNN Mohawk Nation News has published another book in the “Mohawk Issues for Dummies Series”. It’s called “The On-Going Confusion Between the Great Law of Peace and the Handsome Lake Code”. Here are some comments from two people who read the book:

“Gees, I always thought I was ”traditional” because of my belief in the “Creator”! It looks like I have to question how I relate to the natural world and my responsibilities to it”, stated a Kanion’ke:haka youth who is always looking for answers.

“What a colonial conspiracy! This is the first time anyone took the Great Law philosophy and compared it with the Christian-based Handsome Lake Code ”, said a surprised elder of Kahnawake.

This book helps readers to understand the alarming turn of events at Six Nations over the land reclamation. For almost two years the Six Nations people, our friends and allies successfully took back and held Indigenous land known as “Douglas Creek Estates”, now called “Kanenhstaton”.

The Indigenous right to this land that was stolen by the settlers is well documented in the records kept by colonial society. This is why officials from Canada and Ontario have never offered to have Six Nations rights reviewed in a court or by a neutral third party. If the evidence was properly reviewed, they would lose. Their only hope to continue with the theft of the Six Nations land is to get someone to agree to terms that reduce Six Nations rights.

According to the Great Law, only the women can deal with land issues as we are the “progenitors of the nation” and the land is held by us for the future generations. The Confederacy chiefs, clan mothers, “talkers” and lawyers that are sitting with Canada and Ontario are suppose to be discussing the return of our stolen land. Instead they got suckered into setting up something called the “Haudenosaunee Development Institute” to sign our land over to white developers. Decisions were made without meeting us and coming to a consensus. Permission was given for the Ontario Provincial Police to attack those of us who objected to the illegal housing development, who are now facing charges in the colonial court.

The chiefs and clan mothers at Six Nations violated our law. The following abstract from “The On-Going Confusion Between the Great Law and the Handsome Lake Code” lays out the source of their confusion and inability to push the Six Nations sovereignty and land issue. They are influenced by the fear based colonial ideology known as the “Handsome Lake Code”.

“A “philosophy” is the basic underlying principles, conduct, thought and knowledge in how a people relate to the natural world. An “ideology” is based on doctrines, opinions or ways of thinking which set out how a people shall behave, not necessarily based on a knowledge or practical understanding of the nature of the universe. These differences can be seen in the conflict between the ”Great Law of Peace” and the ”Handsome Lake Code” which, on the surface, are seemingly similar traditional understandings in Iroquois communities.

The Great Law is a pre-contact philosophy which formed the basis of Iroquois culture. The opening thanksgiving outlines an interdependent system of relations of all elements of nature which are equal; women have powerful roles in social, political and economic life; and the people form the base of power.

The Handsome Lake Code is a post-contact Christian based ideology which outlines a hierarchical order of the “spirit” forces, offices and elements of nature arranged according to their idea of power. This ‘faith’ is trying to get rid of the Great Law in most Iroquois communities.

This book compares the principles of the two. The conflict is between the “inner directed” Great Law adherents and the “accommodationist” Handsome Lake followers. The Great Law adherents are directed by the inner core of our knowledge system and traditions. The Handsome Lake followers are influenced by outside forces to accept the modes of colonial society.”

The conflict is created by religions and how they weaken, confuse and control our people. Elders like Karonhiaktajeh, Kanietahawi and others explain their relationships with Christianity and the Church and how they had to struggle to be free. They describe their lifelong battle to get rid of the deeply ingrained psychological conditioning designed to break down their will and freedom of thought.

Today we are beginning to see how we were made to live under its shadow without realizing its effect on us. We think we’re “traditional” when we are practising Christian-based rituals such as confession while wearing Indian clothes. We also take on the traditions of a variety of other Indigenous nations. For example, the ‘pow wow’ takes native imagery from its original context, i.e., the Plains Indians, and adapts it. There are many similarities in the nature-based philosophies of all Indigenous peoples on Turtles Island and beyond.

The Great Law of Peace is the Constitution of the Iroquois, also referred to as the “Old Way”. This confederation of five nations, later six, was a powerful force before and during the colonial period of Turtle Island or North America as it is called by the European settlers. Certain principles of the constitution were adopted as the basis of the Constitution of the United States, such as the three party structure and some symbols. The Iroquois Confederacy still exists today. Most Iroquois nations are finding their way back to the original Great Law philosophy.

Basic principles, a comparison of the “Law” and the “Code” and where they contradict each other are set out. To make sense of this deep-rooted conflict in Iroquois communities, these two philosophies are examined. Iroquois followers of the Great Law see the Handsome Lake Code as deliberately attempting to disregard the ancient world view of the Iroquois. The Handsome Lake followers believe they are “traditional”.

An understanding of these matters offers key insights into methodologies that are being used by colonial officials to undermine attempts at Six Nations to uphold our sovereign rights.

Kahentinetha Horn
MNN Mohawk Nation News

To order: $20 Canadian or U.S. funds includes shipping; MNN Mohawk Nation News, Box 991, Kahnawake [Quebec, Canada] J0L 1B0. 450-635-9345 kahentinetha2@yahoo.com or katenies20@yahoo.com

Also available from MNN Mohawk Issues for Dummies Series: “Who’s Sorry Now? The Good, the Bad and the Unapologetic Mohawks of Kanehsatake” by Kahentinetha Horn. $20 includes shipping.

**Purchase price is $20.00 including shipping; Order from – MNN Mohawk Nation News, Box 991, Kahnawake (Quebec, Canada) J0L 1B0. Or contact: Kahentinetha Horn, kahentinetha2@yahoo.com or Katenies at katenies20@yahoo.com http://www.mohawknationnews.com

New MNN Books Available Now!

Mohawk Warriors Three – The Trial of Lasagna, Noriega, 20/20
$20.00 usd

Where Eagles Dare to Soar – Indians, Politics & Aids
$20.00 usd 2nd Printing

The Agonizing Death of “Colonialism” and “Federal Indian Law” in Kaianere’ko:wa/Great Law Territory
$20.00 usd

Who’s Sorry Now? The good, the bad and the unapologetic Mohawks of Kanehsatake
$20.00 usd

The books below, email us:

Rebuilding the Iroquois Confederacy
Karoniaktajeh
$10 usd

Warriors Hand Book
Karoniaktajeh
$10 usd

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Kahentinetha Horn
Kahentinetha2@yahoo.com
Speaking & Contemporary Native Issues Workshops

Katenies
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poster: katenies

 

BEARS ARE MOUNTING THE SILVER EAGLE TO MEET THE CONDOR

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BEARS ARE MOUNTING THE SILVER EAGLE TO MEET THE CONDOR

 

MOHAWKS TO ATTEND INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLE IN VENEZUELA

MNN. Aug. 5, 2007. The Indigenous people and President Hugo Chavez are bringing together 40 Indigenous nations of Venezuela from August 7 to 9, 2007.

The Mohawk delegation is made up of two women, Kahentinetha, an elder and Karenhahes, Bear Clan Mother.

This congress is setting up a broad international movement of indigenous people to reject colonial oppression. During the 20th century, the European states that generated the colonial movement began to understand that they would destroy each other if they kept up the land and resources grab and the ensuing killing of Indigenous peoples. Colonialism was declared illegal. Canada continued to define a “person” as any individual other than an Indian until 1951. Canada still does not respect our sovereignty and presumes that their colonial law is the only law north of the 49th parallel. The U.S. usurps the Indigenous lands, resources and jurisdiction south of the 49th parallel.

Canada refuses to sign the Declaration of Indigenous rights at the United Nations, even though that declaration is a profoundly colonial instrument. International law recognizes that no state can absorb another without the free and fully informed consent of the people concerned in a free vote. The Indigenous peoples and nations never agreed to become part of Canada. Canada is addicted to old destructive models of social and economic relations and medieval ruling class credos. It thinks that social order is based on command and obedience, not agreement between equals, and that there can’t be wealth without poverty. Such nonsense.

The meeting in Venezuela will take place in Mapiricure, an indigenous community in the south. On August 9th President Hugo Chavez will be presented with the Indigenous Feather known as the “Penacho” and a headdress. This will be followed by a ceremony invoking the powers of the natural world. On that day 11 land titles will be turned over to the Indigenous Communal Councils by President Chavez.

The shamen carrying out the ceremony will be joined by shamen from Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Nicaraugua, Mexico, Panama and the U.S.

Here is a draft of the words that the Mohawk delegation will be delivering to the International Congress of Indigenous People “in Defence of the Planet”, outlining a new paradigm for human existence.

“Nia:wen for your invitation to witness this historic event. From our women, we bring greetings to the women of your country.

From the “Rotiyaner” who are the men of our nation, we bring greetings from our men to your men.

From our elders, those who are the grandmothers and grandfathers, we bring our greetings to you who are the grandmothers and grandfathers of this nation.

From the fathers and mothers of our nation we bring greetings to you who are the mothers and fathers to your nation.

From our young people we bring greetings to your young people of this nation.

From the children of our nation we bring greetings to the children of your nation.

From those who still crawl upon the earth and those who are still on the cradle board, we bring greetings to your children who crawl on the earth and those who are on the cradle board.

From those faces of our future who are still beneath the earth, we bring the greetings to those of your people whose faces are yet beneath the earth.

Now that we have said this, we may begin.

We would like to have had a larger delegation here to day. Due to our struggle to preserve our sovereignty we are oppressed and ignored on our own homeland we call Onowarekeh, also known also as “Turtle Island”. The foreign colonial governments of Canada and the United States limit our movements on our own land. They fail to teach their people about our existence, our philosophy, our laws.

Mr. Chavez, thank you for giving our people an opportunity to establish relations between our governments under our philosophy known as the “Kaianereh’ko:wa”, the Great Law of Peace. We are not under the colonial laws. We continue to adhere to our laws and traditions. We continue to ensure a future for our people as the Kanion’ke:haka/Mohawk.

We are the eyes and ears that will witness this event. This is the beginning of a message to other nations to work towards bringing people back together to form an alliance. We wish to develop a sane and healthy way of life that assures that all people are decently cared for.

We need to renew the solemn blood covenants that have bound all Indigenous Peoples of South America and Onowarekeh, our name for Turtle Island, for thousands of years. We are one blood. When one family member is oppressed the other must aid their covenant partners. Everyone is there to uplift each other. No one goes without.

Our perception is that the material world is to be shared and distributed equally. Our ancestors knew that when a hunter went into the woods and brought back a deer, the entire community shared in that bounty. This is common to all Indigenous peoples of the world. Those who have fallen away from these simple concepts and now practice colonialism must be brought back into the human family and saved from themselves.

We present you with a copy of the Great Law, our constitution, in both Mohawk and English, our Confederacy flag, the Unity flag and several books about us that will be of interest to you.

We, the Onkwehonweh [the original people], are the guardians of Onowarekeh. Recently South America was visited by the President of the United States and the Prime Minister of Canada. They both avoided Venezuela because they can’t understand what’s happening here and it frightens them. These are emotionally disturbed people. They don’t know how to exist on a level of equality with their fellow human beings.

They do not represent us or even the people of their countries. They follow habits of thought that have been proven to be ineffective and destructive to the continuation of human life on earth. They represent foreigners who have usurped our resources and deny us any rights to our ancestral heritage.

Our words as the true representatives are binding on Turtle Island. We have always been here. We belong to the land on which we were formed. Mr. Chavez is here with the true owners of the lands of Onowarekeh and South America. What we say between us is binding.

Under natural law and international law everyone has a right to our own government, nationality and land.

As elders of our nation, we are dedicated to work in the best interests of our people. Each of us has power in our lives. We have a duty to spread the Kaianerehkowa throughout the world. The white roots from the Tree of Peace go in the four directions. Those who wish to find shelter may trace its roots to the source. My nation and Six Nations Iroquois Confederacy are in need of this alliance at this time.

Mr. Chavez holds the same political positions as the Mohawk Nation. We are here to help fan the flames so that the fire grows larger to make a place for all humans to share its warmth and benefits.

No one needs anyone’s permission to promote alliances, unification of our peoples and to spread the peace as prescribed in the Kaianereh’ko:wa. We refuse to live under a dictatorship.

An opportunity came to us to come here. We seized it. Last September some of our people went to New York City, which is on Iroquois land, to hear Mr. Chavez speak. He was inspiring. They told us that they agreed with every word he said.

Our message of peace came to us from our ancestors, Dekanawida and Jigosaseh. They told our people to bring everyone into a covenant of peace, to link arms with all the other peoples of the world. We are continuing the work of our ancestors to bring the message of peace to you today.

South America has the same colonial past as Onowarekeh, Turtle Island. We have occupied our territories since time immemorial. This land is who we are. It is our identity. Mr. Chavez is one of us. His roots go deep into the soil, the jungles, the mountains and fields of Venezuela. From the earth he gets sustenance, vitality and ability to help his people. The people feel safe. His first instinct is to protect the Indigenous people and the visitors who are here.

Venezuela is a beautiful wealthy part of the world. Your resources are now being skillfully used to enhance the best interests of the land and the people who live upon it. You are tapping into the wellspring of ancestral memories that are hidden in the minds of every person living here.

Now all other Indigenous people are seeing that it is possible to take our lives under our own control, not be dominated by foreign forces and to do good.

We feel secure with the Venezuelans. You are competent and sure of who you are. Initially the multinational corporations felt intimidated by the turn of events. They are finding they can work with the original people in the best interests of all. Everyone is benefiting. The only way to achieve harmony and prosperity among us is to bring all our talents and innate abilities together.

Mr. Chavez has found a way to bring this out in all of his people. He represents the forces of a people who are on the move. He has offered a new paradigm. He is showing Indigenous peoples and others that we can take over our own lives and run our own affairs. We can do it so that no one feels intimidated or threatened. It is becoming the natural way to do things.

Dekanawaida and Jigosaseh, the man and woman who helped develop the Great Law of Peace, understood this. They realized that the strength of the Confederation was based on no nation dominating the others. Each, no matter how large or small, had a right to exist and remain who they are.

There was no stifling of the innate abilities of the Onondagas, Senecas, Oneidas, Cayugas, Mohawks or Tuscaroras. Larger nations did not overpower the smaller ones. We were equal. Diverse peoples were brought together to work in harmony for the benefit of everyone. No one could assert themselves over others.

This is the reason why the indigenous government in Venezuela is successful. Mr. Chavez has tapped into the same knowledge that exists in all Indigenous people. The renaissance in Venezuela is going to spread all over the world.

People always feel threatened by a new paradigm. We can expect many attacks from the colonial powers. We do not use guns but they point theirs at us. They don’t know what else to do. The young, the poor and even the middle class in the colonized countries are all suffering from the same insecurity and dislocation that has been imposed on us. They will join us once they understand.

If everyone doesn’t relearn how to look after the earth and each other, there will be nothing left for anyone to eat; no clean water to drink; and no clean air to breathe. The colonial commercial exploitation of the environment has been taken to such extremes that human life itself is in peril. We can work together to clean up the mess we have created as human beings and make the earth healthy again.

The greedy grasping power hungry people who are trying to gain control over all of humanity have lost touch with reality. Just when they think that they have achieved their goal of absolute control and domination, the pyramid of delusion will collapse beneath their feet. Life itself will be gone.

Nobody wants to suffer the consequences of a collapse of this order. Venezuela has a model that is working. People are free and work together to develop everyone to their full potential in whatever area of life they have chosen.

When somebody wants to go from one place to another through forests, jungles, swamps, deserts or mountains, somebody always goes ahead and cuts the trail. The others follow the steps of those who went ahead. They all get to their destination safely. It takes a courageous visionary to see far ahead the dangers that are prowling around. Hugo Chavez is a trailblazer in the realm of the world’s progressives. He helps whole groups of people move forward together. He is setting in motion an act that others will follow.

We have a chance to see how this model is working to its fullest potential so that the good life and good health is shared by all equally. We feel gratified and honored that we are taking part in the dedication of the land to the original people. We need more people like Hugo Chavez all over the world. We hope for the continued good health of Mr. Chavez, who cares to lead in troubled times. Artificial ways will dissolve themselves because they are not real. Humanity must go back to the natural relationships. We salute you, Venezuela, for showing the world how your humanitarian goals are being achieved and are inspiring others to achieve”.

Kahentinetha Horn
MNN Mohawk Nation News

Send your comments on this movement to be presented to the Venezuelans and the Indigenous people who are attending his event at congresoindigena@gmail.com, Kahentinetha2@yahoo.com and katenies20@yahoo.com

poster: katenies

 

OBJECTION TO ATTEMPTED USURPATION OF ARCTIC REGION

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MNN. August 21, 2007. Originally, in January of 2006, this objection was sent out via electronic and registered mail to all states claiming sovereignty over our un-surrendered lands known as the Arctic Region/Turtle Island. This objection has been revised to include Russia and sent registered mail to the parties.Soon to be Posted: http://www.mohawknationnews.com/ News category “Women Title Holders” Attachment: Mohawk Manifesto

PUBLIC NOTICE OF OBJECTION TO ATTEMPTED USURPATION OF INDIGENOUS JURISDICTION KNOWN AS THE “ARCTIC REGION” OF TURTLE ISLAND BY THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, DENMARK, RUSSIA AND ANY OTHER NATION, CORPORATION, FOREIGN FEDERAL, STATE OR PROVINCIAL “GOVERNANCE” AGENCIES AND ALL “OUTSIDERS” AND NON-INDIGENOUS INTERESTS

DATE: January 28, 2006

FROM: Women Title Holders of the Kanion’ke:haka Nation

According to Wampum 44 of our law, the Kaianereh’ko:wa, the Women Title Holders are the “progenitors of the soil” of Turtle Island . We are the Caretakers of the land, water and air of Turtle Island. We are notifying you and the International Forum of Nations of our constitutional jurisdiction in our land that is being violated.

RE: Non-Indigenous invasion of Indigenous constitutional jurisdiction of Arctic Region of Turtle Island by Canada, United States, Denmark, Russia and other outside entities

TO: Canada; United States; Denmark; Russia; Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II; Governor General of Canada; all Provinces of Canada; President of United States; Department of Justice Canada; U.S. Department of Justice; Attorney General of Canada; U.S. Attorney General; Department of Indian Affairs, Department of Interior; Stock Exchanges Toronto, Montreal, New York, London. Tokyo, Hong Kong and Zurich; The Pentagon; U.S. Army and Navy; European Union; Department of Defense Canada; Canada Steamship Lines; others listed at end (Addresses at end of Public Notice).

OBJECTION TO: The invasion of Indigenous constitutional jurisdiction by Canada, United States, Denmark, Russia and their affiliates and all outside non-indigenous entities who are presently attempting to usurp the northern region of Turtle Island. Canada is fighting a turf war with Denmark over the “barren” Hans Island in the Arctic, and U.S. submarines have surfaced in the far north. Canada, United States, Denmark, Russia or any other corporations have no claim over this area which belongs to the Indigenous people of Turtle Island. We demand that you cease and desist, immediately your invasion and exploitation of Indigenous territory and its people.

This turf war over the Arctic Region is a violation of our customs, practices and occupational jurisdiction. Modern international law seeks to protect small peoples from incursions by aggressive states who use military and economic force to impose their culture on others. According to both the Canadian constitution and the American constitution those states cannot simply appropriate our land, resources and territorial waters. Indigenous people never surrendered our rights. The Western Sahara case makes it very clear that a territory cannot be incorporated in another state without the informed consent of the majority of its people. This requirement has not been met.

Neither, Canada, the United States, Denmark nor Russia has authority to extend colonial authority or jurisdiction over us. Any past agreements or treaties have been limited to allowing foreign settlers to live peacefully on our land.

According to our agreements with Canada and the United States, any American, Canadian, Danish, Russian or other foreigner wishing to enter our territory for any reason whatsoever must deal with us through their state representative. No individual or foreign entity can invite outsiders onto our territory.

The Women Title Holders have the authority to safeguard our land for the coming generations. We have always defended our right to self-determination. We continue to do this now that the right to self-determination is recognized as a universal human right.

Canada, United States, Denmark and Russia never consulted us nor asked us for our consent to enter our Arctic waters and territory.

This dispute between Canada, United States, Denmark and Russia over our territory, waters and resources has overlooked our rights. The colonial custom of appropriating the sources of indigenous sustenance is resulting in the genocide of many indigenous people and destroying the entire world environment for everybody. Mother Earth is already badly scarred and yet you have not modified your behavior.

We demand that you to leave aside your colonial habits of the past. Move into the 21st Century in a way that respects our equal rights and common humanity.

We are registering our objection to this illegal assumption of jurisdiction by Canada, United States, Denmark, and Russia and their agents. In Canada we took an action in the Supreme Court of Canada – Kanion’ke:haka Kaianereh’ko:wa Kanon’ses:neh v. Attorney General of Canada and Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Ontario, Court File: 05-CV-030785.

We brought this constitutional jurisdiction issue before the U.S. Supreme Court. See No. 05-165: 2005. In The Supreme Court of the United States In re Kanion’ke:haka Kaianereh’ko:wa Kanon’ses:neh, Non-party, Petitioner/Movant/Appellant, The Canadian St. Regis Band of Mohawk Indians, Plaintiffs, Respondents, v. The State of New York, Defendants, Respondents. Petition for Writs of Certiorari and Quo Warranto with Prohibition and Mandamus in Aid to Prevent Genocide. Rules 17.1 and 20.1.

Whereas:

1. Jurisdiction over our ter­ritory now called the “ Arctic ” and beyond, belongs to the Indigenous People of Turtle Island.

2. Canada, United States, Denmark and Russia must respect that relations with us shall be con­ducted on a nation-to-nation basis.

3. Canada and the United States never made a treaty of cession with the Indigenous People for the Arctic. Contact can only be with the constitutional Indigenous people to deal with this issue.

4. The denial of a nation’s exis­tence constitutes genocide, according to the many international covenants that Canada, United States, Denmark and Russia have pledged to uphold;

Therefore:

5. We demand that Canada, United States, Denmark, Russia and their corporate bodies and associates immediately cease and desist their illegal assumption of jurisdiction or presence in any way, shape or form on our territory, the Arctic .

6. Finally, we demand to be officially informed of how international, federal, state and provincial entities can violate international law and the rule of law by superseding our jurisdiction over territory that we never surrendered through a treaty or any means whatsoever.

By Kanion’ke:haka Women Title Holders

Kahentinetha, Bear Clan /s/______________________

Katenies, Bear Clan /s/___________________

P.O. Box 991 , Kahnawake of Mohawk Territory ( Quebec, Canada ) J0L 1B0 kahentinetha2@yahoo.com, katenies20@yahoo.com

Sent to:

-Hon. Stephen Harper, Prime Minister, Government of Canada, Parliament Buildings, Ottawa Canadaharper.s@parl.gc.ca pm@pm.gc.ca; Bloc Quebecois, Parliament Buildings, Ottawa Canada Duceppe.g@parl.gc.ca; Jack Layton, New Democratic Party, 279 Laurier Ave., Ottawa Canada K1P 5J9 layton.j@parl.gc.ca; Liberal Party of Canada, Dalton McGuinty, Premier. Legislative Building, Queen’s Park, Toronto ON M7A 1A1 Dalton.McGuinty@premier.gov.on.ca;Attorney General of Ontario, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, 1200 Vanier Parkway, Ottawa Canada K1A 0R2 mclelland.a@parl.gc.ca; Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada, House of Commons, Ottawa Canada K1A 0A6 onbox@psepc.gc.ca; Minister of Defense Canada, Major Gen. George R. Pearkes Bldg., 101 Col. By Drive, Ottawa, Canada K1A 0K2 graham.b@gc.ca; Department of Justice Canada; Attorney General of Canada; Department of Indian Affairs; Hon. Paul Okalik, Premier, Government of Nunavut, Iqaluit NU Canada; Government of Yukon, Box 2703, Whitehorse, Yukon Canada Y1A 2C6 information@gov.yk.ca; NWT

-George Bush, President of United States, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington DC 20500 president@whitehouse.gov; David Rumsfeld, Secretary of Defense, The Pentagon, Headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense president@whitehouse.gov; -Andrew S. Eristoff, Commissioner, New York State Department of Taxation, W.A. Harriman Campus, Albany, NY 12227-0155 aeristoff@tax.state.ny.us; -Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, U.S. Department of Justice, 950 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington DC 20530-0001 askdoj@usdoj.gov;Gail Norton, and George Skibine, Department of the Interior, 1849 C St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20240 webteam@ios.doi.gov; Tracey S. Toubu, Director, Office of Tribal Justice, United States Department of Justice, 950 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington DC 20530 202-514-8812 Fax 202-514-9078 AskDOJ@usdoj.gov; U.S. Congress askben@gpo.gov; Ralph Seekins, Justice Minister, Government of Alaska senatorralphseekins@legis.state.ak.us

-U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, webmaster@usace.army.mil; The United States Army, 1500 Army Pentagon, Washington DC 20310-1500; The U.S. Navy, 1200 Navy Pentagon, Room 4B463, Washington DC 20350-1200; Central Intelligence Agency, Office of Public Affairs, Washington DC 20505

-Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, Buckingham Palace, London SQ1A UK press@royalcollection.org.uk; Governor General of Canada, Mme. Michaelle Jean, info@gg.ca

-President Anders Fogh Masmussen, Denmark, Christiansborg – Prins Jortgens Gard 11 – 1218 Copenhagen K, Denmark stm@stm.dk; Minister of Defense, Denmark, Forsvarsministeriet, Holmens Kanal 42, 1060 Kobenhavn K fmn@fmn.dk; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Denmark, The Permanent Mission of Denmark to the United States, One Dag Hammerskjold Plaza, 885 Second Ave., 18th Fl., New York 10017 USA nycmis@um.dk; Mr. Javier Solana, Secretary-General of the Council of the European Union, Rue de la Loi, 175 B-1048 Bruxelles public.info@consilium.eu.int press.office@consilium.eu.int

-Bono, DATA, 1400 Eye St., N.W., Suite 1125 , Washington DC 20005

-Canada Steam Ship Lines, Headquarters, 759 Square Victoria, Montreal, Quebec Canada H2Y 2K3 ships@cslmtl.com smitcham@cslmtl.com wmorrison@cslhfx.com marcgir@mb.sympatico.ca; Royal Canadian Military Institute, 426 University Ave., Toronto ON Canada M5G 1S9 president@rcmi.org

-Toronto Stock Exchange TSX Inc., queries@tsxdatalinx.com; Montreal Stock Exchange/Bourse de Montreal Inc. P.O. Box 61, 800 Victoria Sq., Montreal Quebec H4Z 1A9 info@m-x.ca; Board of Directors, %The Corporate Secretary, New York Stock Exchange Incorporated, 11 Wall Street, New York, 10005 Fax 212-656-3939 corpsecy@nyse.com; Kathleen Chu, Tokyo Stock Exchange, schu2@bloomberg.net, pcadvisor_letters@idg.com; Ann Moulier, London Stock Exchange, 10 Paternoster Sq., London UK EC4M 7LS internet-team@londonstockexchange.com; Hong Kong Stock Exchange, 12/F One International Finance Center, 1 Harborview St., Central Hong Kong info@hkex.com.hk bjo@hkex.com.hk; -SAM Indexes Gmgh, DJSI, Seefeldstrasse 215, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland, info@sustainability-indexes.com

-Iroquois Caucus; Mohawk Council of Kanehsatake bonspille.b@ysmpatico.ca; Six Nations Council; Chiefs, Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Inc., 412 State Route 37, Akwesasne (New York) 13655 518-358-3203; Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, P.O. Box 579, Cornwall, Ontario K6H 5T3; -Mohawk Council of Kahnawake, P.O. Box 720, Kahnawake of Mohawk Territory, (Quebec) J0L 1B0; Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, R.R. 1, Tyendinaga of Mohawk Territory, Ontario 613-396-3424 Fax 613-396-3627; Cayuga Nation of Indians Inc., P.O. Box 11, Versailles, NY 14168 F 716-532-5417; Seneca Nation of Indians, Allegany Reservation, P.O. Box 231, Salamanca, NY 14779 F 716-945-1790; Cattaraugus Reservation, 1490 Route 438, Irving NY 14081 F 716-532-9132; Oneida Indian Nation of New York Inc., 223 Genesee St., Oneida NY 13421 F 315-361-6333; Onondaga Nation, Rte. 11A, Box 229, Nedrow, NY 13120, T 315-492-3041; Tonawanda Band of Senecas (Tonawanda Seneca Nation), 7027 Meadville Rd., Basom NY 14013 T 716-542-4244; Tuscarora Indian Nation, 2006 Mt. Hope Rd., Lewiston NY 14092 T 716-297-4990; Mohawk Nation Council of Chiefs Mohawkna@slic.com, Box 366, Rooseveltown, NY F 518-358-3488; Kanatsiohareke, 4934 State Hwy. 5, Fonda NY 12068 kanatsio@superior.net; Oneida Nation, RR 2, Southwold, Ont. N0L 2G0 T 518-652-5414; Kanion’ke:haka Kaianereh’ko:wa Kanon’ses:ne, P.O. Box 1016, Akwesasne (NYS) 13655 katenies20@yahoo.com ;

Organization of American States, 17th St. & Constitution NW, Washington DC 20006 multimedia@oas.org; World Trade Organization, Palais Eynard, Hotel municipal, 4 rue de la Croix-Rouge, 1211 Geneve 3, Switzerland webmaster@ville-ge.ch; International Labor Organization, RELOFF@ilo.org; International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR UK media@imo.org; North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Blvd. Leopold III, 111- Brussels, Belgium natodoc@hq.nato.int;

-UN Office of High Commission for Human Rights, UN Plaza, S. 294, New York, 10017; tb-petitions@ohchr.org 1503@ohchr.org InfoDesk@ohchr.org; Rudolpho Stavenhagen, International Commission for Human Rights, P.O. Box 16, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland; Coalition for the International Criminal Court, %WFM, 708 3rd Ave., 24th Floor, New York (NYS) 10017, cicc@iccnow.org; The Hague, Anna Paulownastraat 103, 251 BBC, The Netherlands t: +31-70-363-4484 F: +31-70-364-0259; Pope Benedictine XVI, Joseph Ratzinger, St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, Rome, Italy; Shiva Vanadana vshiva@giasdl01.net.in; UN Forum for Indigenous Peoples, Room DC2-1772, New York 10017 IndigenousPermanentForum@un.org

-World Intellectual Property Organization, 34 Chemin de Colombettes, Geneva information.center@wito.int; International Monetary Fund, 700 19th St., NW, Washington DC 20431, F 202-623-4661 lelgislative affairs mschrader@imf.org; -World Trade Organization, Mike Moore, 154 rue de Lausanne 1211, Geneva 21 Switzerland info@gatt.org; World Bank, 1818 H St NW, Washington DC 20433 USA f 202-477-6391 hotline@worldbank.org; William K. Suter, Clerk, Supreme Court of the United States, 1 First St., NE, Washington DC 20543-0001

Greenpeace International, Ottho Heldringstraat 5, 1066 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands supporter.services@int.greenpeace.org; GreenParty info@greenarty.ca; Ducks Unlimited, One Waterfowl Way, Memphis, Tennessee 38120 gpatterson@ducks.org lhouseal@ducks.org vtyler@ducks.org ajones@ducks.org; Sierra Legal Defence Fund

-Amre M. Moussa, Arab League, Mr. Chavez, President of Venezuela ; Mr. Evo Gonzales, President of Bolivia; Government of Israel; Government of Palestine; DeBeers Diamonds; Exxon; British Petroleum; Shell Oil; Petro Canada; Forest ry industries in Canada; Fisheries industries in Canada;

COECO Friends of the Earth-Costa Rica prsj2cr@sol.racsa.co.cr ; ISODEC/third World Network-Africa WAPPIAH@ighmail.com; Western Shonone Defense Project wsdp@igc.org; JATAM/Mining Advocacy Network jatam@jakarta.wasantara.net.id; Federation of Rondas Campesinas of Northern Peru ferocafe@net.telematic.com.pe; Minewatch Asia/Mining Communities Development Center bongcorpuz@phil.gn.apc.org; Mineral Policy Center mpc@mineralpolicy.org; Mineral Policy Institute inform@mpl.org.au; MiningWatch Canada mwc@magma.ca; Goldbusters RRosenhek@aol.com; Environmental Mining Council of British Columbia emcbc@miningwatch.org; Project Underground project_underground@moles.org;

Sent August 21, 2007 via electronic and registered mail:

Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, President Russia; Mikhail Yefimovich Fradkov, PM Russia; Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs; 4 Staraya Square, Moscow, 103132

All media

poster: katenies

 

Peru Earthquake, Your Help is Needed.

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Brothers, Sisters, Friends and Allies, Your Help is needed;

Peru Earthquake

MNN. Thursday, August 16, 2007 A Large delegation of Indigenous people of Peru, are at the “1st International Congress of the Anti-Imperialist Indigenous Peoples of the Americas” in Venezuela who cannot go home. They can’t get in touch with their families. There are massive black outs, fires and so far over 400 people are dead. It was 7.9 on the Richter scale and the epicenter was in the ocean off Lima. The earth moved in waves into the interior. 90% of the people of Peru are Indigenous of many different nations. Millions of our people are affected. The media has not been able to go in directly to get information and presently rely on third hand information.

The victims are primarily Indigenous people who live around the epicenter. The Ministry of Indigenous Affairs in Venezuela, have provided the Peruvian delegates with cell phones but they still can’t get through because everything is down.

It was the “First International Congress of the Anti-Imperialist Indigenous Peoples of the Americas”. The delegation from the U.S. and Canada are asking everyone for assistance for the indigenous nations of Peru by providing any kind of aid, financial and otherwise. Send it to the Peruvian embassies in your countries and make sure you designate it for the victims.

The American Indian Council, the Mohawk indigenous women, the representative of the Mohawk Nation Office and the representatives of the International Indian Treaty Council who came to Venezuela to attend the congress are still in Caracas and asking for aid to help our Indigenous brothers and sisters. Anything you can do is greatly appreciated.

Embassy of the Republic of Peru in Ottawa, Canada – Embajada del Perú en Ottawa, Canadá.Peru – 130 Albert Street Suite 1901, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1P 5G4 Telephone (613) 238-1777, Fax (613) 232-3062, e-mail: emperuca@magi.com

Peru – Consular and Cultural Section – Telephone (613) 233-2721, Fax (613) 232-3062 email: conperu@magmacom.com

Diplomatic representation in the US – chancery: 1700 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone : [1] (202) 833-9860 through 9869 FAX: [1] (202) 659-8124 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paterson (New Jersey), San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto Rico)

Contact your Red Cross for arrangements to give relief for the earthquake victims of Peru.

Kahentinetha Horn, MNN Mohawk Nation News
from Caracas Venezuela

poster: katenies

 

BEARS ARE MOUNTING THE SILVER EAGLE TO MEET THE CONDOR

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BEARS ARE MOUNTING THE SILVER EAGLE TO MEET THE CONDOR

 

MOHAWKS TO ATTEND INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLE IN VENEZUELA

MNN. Aug. 5, 2007. The Indigenous people and President Hugo Chavez are bringing together 40 Indigenous nations of Venezuela from August 7 to 9, 2007.

The Mohawk delegation is made up of two women, Kahentinetha, an elder and Karenhahes, Bear Clan Mother.

This congress is setting up a broad international movement of indigenous people to reject colonial oppression. During the 20th century, the European states that generated the colonial movement began to understand that they would destroy each other if they kept up the land and resources grab and the ensuing killing of Indigenous peoples. Colonialism was declared illegal. Canada continued to define a “person” as any individual other than an Indian until 1951. Canada still does not respect our sovereignty and presumes that their colonial law is the only law north of the 49th parallel. The U.S. usurps the Indigenous lands, resources and jurisdiction south of the 49th parallel.

Canada refuses to sign the Declaration of Indigenous rights at the United Nations, even though that declaration is a profoundly colonial instrument. International law recognizes that no state can absorb another without the free and fully informed consent of the people concerned in a free vote. The Indigenous peoples and nations never agreed to become part of Canada. Canada is addicted to old destructive models of social and economic relations and medieval ruling class credos. It thinks that social order is based on command and obedience, not agreement between equals, and that there can’t be wealth without poverty. Such nonsense.

The meeting in Venezuela will take place in Mapiricure, an indigenous community in the south. On August 9th President Hugo Chavez will be presented with the Indigenous Feather known as the “Penacho” and a headdress. This will be followed by a ceremony invoking the powers of the natural world. On that day 11 land titles will be turned over to the Indigenous Communal Councils by President Chavez.

The shamen carrying out the ceremony will be joined by shamen from Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Nicaraugua, Mexico, Panama and the U.S.

Here is a draft of the words that the Mohawk delegation will be delivering to the International Congress of Indigenous People “in Defence of the Planet”, outlining a new paradigm for human existence.

“Nia:wen for your invitation to witness this historic event. From our women, we bring greetings to the women of your country.

From the “Rotiyaner” who are the men of our nation, we bring greetings from our men to your men.

From our elders, those who are the grandmothers and grandfathers, we bring our greetings to you who are the grandmothers and grandfathers of this nation.

From the fathers and mothers of our nation we bring greetings to you who are the mothers and fathers to your nation.

From our young people we bring greetings to your young people of this nation.

From the children of our nation we bring greetings to the children of your nation.

From those who still crawl upon the earth and those who are still on the cradle board, we bring greetings to your children who crawl on the earth and those who are on the cradle board.

From those faces of our future who are still beneath the earth, we bring the greetings to those of your people whose faces are yet beneath the earth.

Now that we have said this, we may begin.

We would like to have had a larger delegation here to day. Due to our struggle to preserve our sovereignty we are oppressed and ignored on our own homeland we call Onowarekeh, also known also as “Turtle Island”. The foreign colonial governments of Canada and the United States limit our movements on our own land. They fail to teach their people about our existence, our philosophy, our laws.

Mr. Chavez, thank you for giving our people an opportunity to establish relations between our governments under our philosophy known as the “Kaianereh’ko:wa”, the Great Law of Peace. We are not under the colonial laws. We continue to adhere to our laws and traditions. We continue to ensure a future for our people as the Kanion’ke:haka/Mohawk.

We are the eyes and ears that will witness this event. This is the beginning of a message to other nations to work towards bringing people back together to form an alliance. We wish to develop a sane and healthy way of life that assures that all people are decently cared for.

We need to renew the solemn blood covenants that have bound all Indigenous Peoples of South America and Onowarekeh, our name for Turtle Island, for thousands of years. We are one blood. When one family member is oppressed the other must aid their covenant partners. Everyone is there to uplift each other. No one goes without.

Our perception is that the material world is to be shared and distributed equally. Our ancestors knew that when a hunter went into the woods and brought back a deer, the entire community shared in that bounty. This is common to all Indigenous peoples of the world. Those who have fallen away from these simple concepts and now practice colonialism must be brought back into the human family and saved from themselves.

We present you with a copy of the Great Law, our constitution, in both Mohawk and English, our Confederacy flag, the Unity flag and several books about us that will be of interest to you.

We, the Onkwehonweh [the original people], are the guardians of Onowarekeh. Recently South America was visited by the President of the United States and the Prime Minister of Canada. They both avoided Venezuela because they can’t understand what’s happening here and it frightens them. These are emotionally disturbed people. They don’t know how to exist on a level of equality with their fellow human beings.

They do not represent us or even the people of their countries. They follow habits of thought that have been proven to be ineffective and destructive to the continuation of human life on earth. They represent foreigners who have usurped our resources and deny us any rights to our ancestral heritage.

Our words as the true representatives are binding on Turtle Island. We have always been here. We belong to the land on which we were formed. Mr. Chavez is here with the true owners of the lands of Onowarekeh and South America. What we say between us is binding.

Under natural law and international law everyone has a right to our own government, nationality and land.

As elders of our nation, we are dedicated to work in the best interests of our people. Each of us has power in our lives. We have a duty to spread the Kaianerehkowa throughout the world. The white roots from the Tree of Peace go in the four directions. Those who wish to find shelter may trace its roots to the source. My nation and Six Nations Iroquois Confederacy are in need of this alliance at this time.

Mr. Chavez holds the same political positions as the Mohawk Nation. We are here to help fan the flames so that the fire grows larger to make a place for all humans to share its warmth and benefits.

No one needs anyone’s permission to promote alliances, unification of our peoples and to spread the peace as prescribed in the Kaianereh’ko:wa. We refuse to live under a dictatorship.

An opportunity came to us to come here. We seized it. Last September some of our people went to New York City, which is on Iroquois land, to hear Mr. Chavez speak. He was inspiring. They told us that they agreed with every word he said.

Our message of peace came to us from our ancestors, Dekanawida and Jigosaseh. They told our people to bring everyone into a covenant of peace, to link arms with all the other peoples of the world. We are continuing the work of our ancestors to bring the message of peace to you today.

South America has the same colonial past as Onowarekeh, Turtle Island. We have occupied our territories since time immemorial. This land is who we are. It is our identity. Mr. Chavez is one of us. His roots go deep into the soil, the jungles, the mountains and fields of Venezuela. From the earth he gets sustenance, vitality and ability to help his people. The people feel safe. His first instinct is to protect the Indigenous people and the visitors who are here.

Venezuela is a beautiful wealthy part of the world. Your resources are now being skillfully used to enhance the best interests of the land and the people who live upon it. You are tapping into the wellspring of ancestral memories that are hidden in the minds of every person living here.

Now all other Indigenous people are seeing that it is possible to take our lives under our own control, not be dominated by foreign forces and to do good.

We feel secure with the Venezuelans. You are competent and sure of who you are. Initially the multinational corporations felt intimidated by the turn of events. They are finding they can work with the original people in the best interests of all. Everyone is benefiting. The only way to achieve harmony and prosperity among us is to bring all our talents and innate abilities together.

Mr. Chavez has found a way to bring this out in all of his people. He represents the forces of a people who are on the move. He has offered a new paradigm. He is showing Indigenous peoples and others that we can take over our own lives and run our own affairs. We can do it so that no one feels intimidated or threatened. It is becoming the natural way to do things.

Dekanawaida and Jigosaseh, the man and woman who helped develop the Great Law of Peace, understood this. They realized that the strength of the Confederation was based on no nation dominating the others. Each, no matter how large or small, had a right to exist and remain who they are.

There was no stifling of the innate abilities of the Onondagas, Senecas, Oneidas, Cayugas, Mohawks or Tuscaroras. Larger nations did not overpower the smaller ones. We were equal. Diverse peoples were brought together to work in harmony for the benefit of everyone. No one could assert themselves over others.

This is the reason why the indigenous government in Venezuela is successful. Mr. Chavez has tapped into the same knowledge that exists in all Indigenous people. The renaissance in Venezuela is going to spread all over the world.

People always feel threatened by a new paradigm. We can expect many attacks from the colonial powers. We do not use guns but they point theirs at us. They don’t know what else to do. The young, the poor and even the middle class in the colonized countries are all suffering from the same insecurity and dislocation that has been imposed on us. They will join us once they understand.

If everyone doesn’t relearn how to look after the earth and each other, there will be nothing left for anyone to eat; no clean water to drink; and no clean air to breathe. The colonial commercial exploitation of the environment has been taken to such extremes that human life itself is in peril. We can work together to clean up the mess we have created as human beings and make the earth healthy again.

The greedy grasping power hungry people who are trying to gain control over all of humanity have lost touch with reality. Just when they think that they have achieved their goal of absolute control and domination, the pyramid of delusion will collapse beneath their feet. Life itself will be gone.

Nobody wants to suffer the consequences of a collapse of this order. Venezuela has a model that is working. People are free and work together to develop everyone to their full potential in whatever area of life they have chosen.

When somebody wants to go from one place to another through forests, jungles, swamps, deserts or mountains, somebody always goes ahead and cuts the trail. The others follow the steps of those who went ahead. They all get to their destination safely. It takes a courageous visionary to see far ahead the dangers that are prowling around. Hugo Chavez is a trailblazer in the realm of the world’s progressives. He helps whole groups of people move forward together. He is setting in motion an act that others will follow.

We have a chance to see how this model is working to its fullest potential so that the good life and good health is shared by all equally. We feel gratified and honored that we are taking part in the dedication of the land to the original people. We need more people like Hugo Chavez all over the world. We hope for the continued good health of Mr. Chavez, who cares to lead in troubled times. Artificial ways will dissolve themselves because they are not real. Humanity must go back to the natural relationships. We salute you, Venezuela, for showing the world how your humanitarian goals are being achieved and are inspiring others to achieve”.

Kahentinetha Horn
MNN Mohawk Nation News

Send your comments on this movement to be presented to the Venezuelans and the Indigenous people who are attending his event at congresoindigena@gmail.com, Kahentinetha2@yahoo.com and katenies20@yahoo.com

poster: katenies

 

Yesterday:KANONHSTATON. Today: TYENDINAGA. Tomorrow: BEYOND THE ANDES…

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Yesterday:KANONHSTATON.
Today: TYENDINAGA.
Tomorrow: BEYOND THE ANDES…

by:Viviana Avila.

There have been a series of recent events that have directly affected indigenous communities, within the Latin American and continental context. This is not a new occurrence; everything started more than 500 years ago, and everyone knows what the armed, cultural invasion brought to our continent. The damage has not been repaired, despite all the time that has passed by, and the regrets that have been said by western civilization.

The dignity of the indigenous peoples and nations of the continent has not been crushed, despite the planned genocide of assimilation imposed upon these millennial cultures. On the contrary in the last few decades, the organization and struggle for their intrinsic rights has been more vigilant with each passing day, as with the increasing grades of consciousness and disposal to struggle for their sovereignty and self-determination. Some more than others, but incentive is alive and has begun to go forward.

We see it end to end in our continent, in the south beyond the Andes; that long and narrow stretch of land, bathed along a contaminated ocean by transnational corporations known as Chile. Those who lust for power have taken over our territories, thanks to the permission given by the cowardly governments that have opened their doors to these companies in exchange for the scraps the empire throws at them, so they can thicken their dirty filthy pockets. They are traitors to their people and to their roots; they wallow in their corrupt state of lies and unbounded ambition. Inheritors of the Pinochet regime, and administrators of his politics and fascist constitution.

Immoral, racist representatives of a sick society that have launched themselves against an unarmed people; intimidating, incarcerating and murdering youth and elders. Assaulting and terrorizing entire communities, on the search for young liberators wearing military boots, worse than in the times of the dictatorship. Mapuche is the name that is criminalized; their courageous organizations, the men and women dignified of their race. What a historical shame for those in the government calling themselves socialist. What a shame for women to have representatives as deceitful as that who leads the country of Chile. You would have to be deceitful to lie and say to the UN that the Mapuches incarcerated by her neo-liberal system are not political prisoners, but “common delinquents.”

The shame that they forgot about their history. The shame of being the legal crooks of lands that do not belong to them; for wanting to develop a second colonization on Mapuche territory, that is nothing more than the extermination of a noble millennial people. One day they will be judged by history. Meanwhile, we leave the natural forces to look after and protect the ancient people with their part in this history. We men and women hold the other part, those that are not willing to let a second colonization happen in Arauco, in Malleco, nor in any other part of Mapuche territory.

Here in Canada, the same thing is happening. Perhaps in a different form, but the pillaging is seen despite the camouflage of grand terrains of flora; immensities of incalculable beauty. Large… everything is large. When one comes to this country everything shines, deceiving, as were the colonizers, as is the current empire, unnecessarily large, inflated with arrogance…. Savage; when it arrives at the indigenous reservations in the darkness, assaulting, clawing, submitting defenseless beings, seizing children, hitting elders and women, arresting youth… Advancing through ancient territory with their infernal machinery. Their factories poisoning the water. The contamination and indigenous poverty makes you shudder in the north, where the great cellulose companies destroy the forest and turn the water that runs through the streams into the color of oxide; burning eyes as you look, and your insides as you drink….

This may seem like a fable, an odyssey, but it is not. It is present north to south, east to west, in this immense show model known as Canada. Here as in the south of the continent, history repeats itself. The repression and displacement of cultures and territories are the product of the same patron of values: money. Universal corrupter of consciouses. The most horrendous injustices that a human being could conceive have been committed in its name. However the peoples and nations have said enough, and have begun to go forward as Che Guevara once said; their march of giants will not be detained. Forced for years to dwell in sacrifice and misery, the indigenous Nations throughout the entire territory have begun their march…

A little more than a year a ago on February 28, 2006, Hadonashonee, Six Nations of the Grand River Territory had to take over their own lands to stop the illegal construction of a housing development (the Douglas Creek Estates), in Kanonhstaton, the protected place. To this day, men and women confront with great courage and dignity, the defense of their territory in harsh climatic conditions and economic pressures on behalf of the government in the talks to recover their land. They are in constant harassment from the police authorities, and the racist population in its surroundings. Despite all the pressures and efforts remove and divide them, Six Nations of the Grand River Territory are more solid and united as ever under the banner of truth, dignity, and solidarity of their own people, and of brotherly peoples that have not been absent from the Reclamation site.

Recently, another front of struggle has arisen from the heart of the Mohawk peoples in Tyendinaga, in defense of their territory and displacement… The taking over of land in their own territory, protest through highway and rail blockades; the different actions of the indigenous peoples have the same cause:the struggle for the defense of their ancient territories, the preservation of their culture, autonomy and the right to decide and influence in their own matters.

That is why we say with much strength: yesterday Kanonhstaton, today Tyendinaga, tomorrow Beyond the Andes. The prophesy of the Eagle and the Condor will yet be realized.

The Women’s Coordinating Committee Chile-Canada

email: wccc_98@hotmail.com

poster: katenies

 

WHAT IS THE ONKWEHONWE DEMOCRATIC AGENDA?

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WHAT IS THE ONKWEHONWE DEMOCRATIC AGENDA?MNN. Feb. 25, 2007. We’ve been complaining about the top-down bureaucratic agenda of the colonizers. Do we have something to replace it? Yes we do. It’s called the Kaianerehkowa/Great Law of Peace. Our philosophy can build a society based on a better understanding of peace, power and righteousness. These words have meanings that are deeply rooted in our culture and completely different from the kinds of expectations they raise among the colonized. Our understanding of these concepts has nothing in common with the command and obedience model of predatory capitalism that exploits the ordinary people for the power and profit of a few. The new (colonial) world order is incompatible with a way of life based on the principles of fully informed consent and consensus in all our relationships.

For more than a thousand years we have had a participatory democracy. In an article by Stephen Lendman, in CounterCurrent.org entitled “Hugo Chavez’s Social Democratic Agenda”, he describes how Chavez has “constructed socialism from below”, built “from the base” in the communities”. He has found a way “to carry out the battle of ideas for the socialist project to rebuild Venezuelan society. He wants a coalition of smaller parties whose power comes from the communities.

Chavez wants to build 21st century socialism using state revenues to benefit people in new and innovative ways. He wants to give more power to the people at the grass roots level which he thinks is the way democracy should work.

There are presently 16,000 regional federations of Communal Councils organized across the country dealing with local issues. Each has 200 to 400 families. That number is expected to grow to 21,000 councils by year end 2007. “They are the key to people’s power”. This looks like the embryo of a new state, driven by the same basic philosophy of egalitarian human respect that underlies the Kaianerehkowa.

An intergovernmental fund for decentralization will distribute billions to these Councils in 2007. This is more than triple the amount allocated in 2006. If the people so chose, billions can be put into a “National Development Fund” for industrial development. Yellow journalism has been attacking this thinking. They put fear into people’s minds, calling it “nationalization”, which is a dirty word to capitalist colonial economies. Capitalism is really a one way road for the privileged few. Hostile rhetoric and outright attacks can be expected when true grass roots orthodoxies are ignored. Development of democratic programs look threatening to those who have violently struggled their way to the top of the old hierarchal heap.

As we assert our sovereignty, we have lots to think about. What can we Onkwehonwe do with all our land and resources and all the squatters who are here? The land still belongs to the Indigenous people and always will. All the resource revenues can be used to compensate the colonists fairly. The rest can be put towards rebuilding a safe and healthy environment.

U.S. and Canada will, of course, become irrelevant. The old hierarchies will cling to their delusional powers. They will keep their guns pointed at us and try to invent more lethal weapons. We’ll have to bring out the feathers and start tickling them so they get real. If they don’t, we might have to ask them to leave. They have legal obligations. They are violating the Geneva Accords. Their hysterical megalomania is getting them involved in serious violations. They risk being declared persona non grata worldwide.

With all the money from our land and resources, we could buy out the big corporations so that we have the major shares, say 40%, as Chavez is doing. The rest can be joint ventures with us. In other words, we want all these companies under the control of the people. The colonists can have shares after we take everything out of private control.

The money should be put back into our hands where it belongs, out of the hands of private for-profit bankers. We would invest it into worthwhile projects that meet our priorities and that will restore and protect the land so that the coming generations can be healthy, happy and prosperous. The days of genocide and exploitation are over. We must benefit most from our resource revenues and other businesses that provide essential services like public utilities. Clean drinking water and fresh air to breathe would be one of our top priority.

Private businesses will have to be transparent and abide by new standards of fairness. This will be a big adjustment for those who are used to having their way.

We will redefine and restructure our relationships. It goes without saying that Indian Affairs has to go. Communal power at the grass roots will be the order of the day. This is the basis of the post-colonial model. Kaianerehkowa can make this happen and can be the start of a real egalitarian and humanistic society.

All social structures will have to be reorganized. Selections of local officials, the economy, finance, banking, transportation, security, public safety and policies related to energy are part of this. There is no need for a top heavy governmental structure when everyone takes responsibility at all levels.

The current colonial bureaucracy will have to be dismantled. Some of it could be adjusted to the new reality. Corruption is a major problem and has to be eliminated. Social justice and economic independence will be based on equitable distribution of national wealth spent on health care, education and social security. Education is of utmost importance. Racism must be eliminated from all school curricula. Science and technology has to benefit all of the people. So must education, health, the environment, biodiversity, industry, quality of life and security. Financial sectors, including banking and insurance, will have to conform to the Kaianerehkowa. Responsibility has to be returned to the people so we can take charge of our own welfare.

Public health, rehabilitation, identification and migration regulations are all matters that we can deal with ourselves using the Kaianherehkowa methodology. We will not need a judiciary. We will be able to solve everything through consensus.

The people must control the energy sector including oil production. Private investors can still play a role. But it will be based on equitable joint ventures that include the people as decision makers, not just consumers.

Local, community and territorial organizations will be set up. The principles of the Kaianerekowa will inform all our relationships. As long as representatives are carrying out the will and the wishes of the people, they may remain in their positions. All procedures and decision making must be public and the work of all administrative officials will be subject to constant review. They can be removed from office if they do not follow the people’s directions or heed our warnings. All must be given the experience of being a representative so that we can all learn how to help the people. It is important for us to learn how difficult it is to serve.

We cannot give anyone power to harm civil or human rights of our people or even of our opponents.

We will conduct all relations with other countries. Colonial states squatting on our land do not represent us.

We will not expropriate private property. Right of occupancy can be given to people. The land continues to belong as it always has to the Onkwehonwe.

The last days of the colonial system are at hand. Democracy and colonialism cannot coexist. Colonialism is a military or civilian “dictatorship” derived from a combination of isolation, overarching greed and an attempt to pull local and global forces together to control all the people and the resources of the world.

Savage capitalism is fighting to stay alive. It is putting colonial nations on the tipping edge of fascism. It combines elements of corporatism, patriotism, nationalism and the delusion of an Almighty-directed mission while pursuing an iron-fisted militarist agenda, with thugs like “Homeland Security” enforcers that are illegally spying on everyone. In this system everything is for sale to the few who can pay.

Under our system things will be distributed fairly. No one will become desperate enough to want to sell their soul to the devil.

Colonialism is out of date, illegal and so yesterday. No longer will the armies oppress and kill for the key resources, markets and cheap labor where “might makes right” and any difference of opinion will not be tolerated. We will challenge them even though we place ourselves in jeopardy such as being made public enemy number one marked for elimination.

Our youth are precious to us. The Los Angeles Times did a story about “A wildly successful Venezuelan program that makes musical instruments and training available, free of charge, to all children”. This gives the children something constructive to do, in contrast to the U.S. model which struggles to keep guns out of the hands of kids. Chavez created a musical education program called “El Sisterna” which serves 500,000 children from all strata of society getting training at more than 120 centers around the country. From it more than 200 youth orchestras have been created. Training in music is a known way to develop math skills in the young to prepare them later for professional training.

Suddenly crime control isn’t even a problem on the horizon. It is less expensive than the multi-billion dollars state-sponsored iron-fisted prison system and militarist Homeland Security “thuggery”. Instead of punishing youth, they are inspired. As the author, Paul Cummins, put it, “We reap what we sow, and we don’t harvest what we don’t plant”.

We have always been free. No one can take our freedom from us. Many of those who come from repressive societies are unable to see a bottom-up model of relationships. We have shown that we cannot be oppressed. We have always resisted enslavement.

Another issue is homelessness. We will offer street people communal housing, drug treatment and a modest income. We cannot allow a single child or a single beggar to live on the street. We must guide our homeless to shelters and rehabilitation centers that provide medical and psychological care. They can do community service work. We have to stop planned public neglect that favors private sector gain and disinterest in educating poor inner-city children who are discarded like debris by an uncaring colonial state.

Homelessness highlights the savage effects of capitalism. It is the result of one-way wealth distribution that siphons everything upwards except for a few crumbs that are handed to the middle class while nothing goes to the millions on the bottom though they are the most in need. They all hope we will just go away. We won’t. Neither will our needs. We come from a participatory tradition which can eliminate the greedy fantasies of colonialism.

Free expression is part of an open democratic society. No more secrecy or lies. No more corporate media support for capitalists and colonial states. No more thought-control police to mock our efforts at free expression which is vital to a healthy transition from tyranny to democracy. The “thought police” doesn’t want us to say what is on our minds. They don’t want us to think. We can and will do it because the Kaianerehkowa mandates it. Hugo Chavez of Venezuela and others to the South are being empowered by the people to get back on the natural path that has always been there, for us and for everyone. Chavez is doing it without a war and without global interference. We can do it too.

Kahentinetha Horn
MNN Mohawk Nation News
Kahentinetha2@yahoo.com

For updates, workshops, speakers and to sign up, to to http://www.mohawknationnews.com Please sign the Women Title Holders petition. Coming soon books on Mohawk issues online.

poster: katenies

 

New York land?

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New NYS Governor Eliot Spitzer is about to sign our land into “trust” to build a casino. It is illegal. We would appreciate as many of our native brothers and sisters and our friends and allies registering our opposition on his site before he signs it into “law” on Jan. 1, 2007. Thank you.
Kahentinetha Horn
To: Mr. Eliott Spitzer, Governor of New York State

December 29, 2006.

Before you became Governor of New York State, you were the Attorney General of New York State. At that time you fought against fraud, crime and corruption at all levels. We are now asking you to abide by the laws of the land.

The department of the Interiors’ Bureau of Indian Affairs has just signed off on the environmental assessment. You, Governor Eliot Spitzer, are about to sign off on January 1, 2007 to illegally change our land into “federal trust”. This is a major fraud. Now the proposed St. Regis Mohawk “Tribe’s” casino can go ahead at Monticello Raceway in New York State on our land without our consent. This violates international law. We oppose this. New York State law does not supersede the U.S. Constitution, which you would be violating. As you know, this is treason.

We the Women Title Holders of the Kanion’ke:haka/Mohawk Nation are informing you of the following objections to this project:

1) to the usurpation of our jurisdiction over “New York State” and beyond by the U.S., New York State, non-Indigenous entities, corporations, foreign federal, state, county, boards, state tribal “governance” agencies and all other “outsiders”.

2) to the illegal placing of our sovereign territory into federal trust with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, including lands known as “Monticello” and “Sullivan County” to build casinos on or to do any development.

3) to enforcing “Federal Indian law” which violates the nation-to-nation relationship worked out between our constitutions, the Kaianereh’ko:wa, and the U.S. Constitution. As you will recall, in 2005 New York State failed to fraudulently claim our lands. You know very well that the signing in Albany on Feb. 1, 2005, with the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe Inc., the Mohawk Nation Council of Chiefs Inc. and Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Inc. to settle so-called land claims was fraudulent and fell. Your concurrent transactions such as taxation, casinos, developments, revenue sharing and other ploys are all illegal and scandalous.

4) to foreign government and corporate entities usurping jurisdiction over us and our unsurrendered land that is respected by Article II of the U.S. Constitution. We Indigenous people still own outright all the land and resources of Turtle Island (that you call North America). These foreign corporations cannot legally put up our land as collateral to solicit public funds for their developments on our land. This is fraud.

Only the Rotinonhsonnion:we/Longhouse People, who abide by the Kaianereh’ko:wa/Iroquois Constitution, are the legitimate voice of our nation. All land, commerce and Kanion’ke:haka Nation issues are the responsibility of the People and not that of outside corporations such as those you have set up like the “tribal” and “band” councils. Any agreements entered into under federal Indian law or state law with the St. Regis Mohawk Council Inc. or any of it’s affiliated departments for the sale, purchase or transfer of our lands under the guise of the Mohawk Nation is illegal, null and void.

The U.S. must abide by the international law principle that there can be no development on Indigenous land without consulting and getting the consent of the true Title Holders.

Our objections to this illegal assumption of jurisdiction by United States, New York State and St. Regis Mohawk Tribe have been registered in the United States Supreme Court case No. 05-165: 2005.

We require you to intervene in the theft of our jurisdiction over our Indigenous territory now called “New York State” and beyond. Do not sign this fraudulent transfer of our land into federal trust and all its attendant underhanded business deals. You vowed as the former Attorney General to stop all corruption. Now that you are the Governor you cannot now knowingly break the law.

Signed: Kahentinetha Horn /s/ ________________ Kanionkeke’ha:ka/Mohawk Nation kahentinetha2@yahoo.com, P.O. Box 418, Akwesasne (New York) 13655 1-613-575-1550

Please register your objection by going to http://www.transitionny.com, click the yellow box “participate”; click “ideas for NY”; to “please click here”. Nia:wen/thank you.

poster: Thahoketoteh

 

Letter to Governor General 11/7/06

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The Women Title Holders answer a letter from the GG’s Secretary. She is being asked to meet us on critical environmental matters at Kanekota [where the waters come from out of the earth].From: Rotinonhsonnion:we Women Title Holders

Nov. 7, 2006.

BY REGISTERED MAIL/EMAIL info@gg.ca

Right Honourable Michaelle Jean
Governor General of Canada, Rideau Hall, Ottawa

Att: Lisa Bryden, Office of the Secretary

She:kon

We are responding to your letter of September 21, 2006 to the Women Title Holders regarding the situation in “Kanekota”, the northern area of the Haldimand Tract. We appreciate your considered response. For your information, this is not a treaty issue, but a proclamation/contract to protect the Mohawk and all our posterity from any encroachment whatsoever for all time to come. This contract has been and continues to be breached by Canada. According to protocol, we must deal with Canada and its agents through the Governor General of Canada.

Our concern is that Kanekota is being environmentally destroyed. It is the highest elevation where all the fresh waters in Ontario begin flowing in all directions. This area is being devastated almost beyond repair by industrial and chemical pollution. Presently two multinational corporations, Enbridge Gas Distrbutors and Canadian Hydro Developers, are exploiting our land for profit. They are trespassing and do not have authorized permission from us to conduct business on our land.

We, the Women title Holders, according to our constitution, the Kaiahereh’ko:wa/Great Law, have the responsibility to take care of the land, water and air of Turtle Island. We are accordingly asking you to meet with us as soon as possible to resolve this issue. The desecration that is continuing to be committed to Turtle Island is tragic. Please help us for our sake and for the sake of the future generations.

We need to clean this area immediately. Then the land will clean itself the way it was designed. It must have clean water coming out of the earth so that it can carry out its duty.

We would appreciate your meeting with us at your earliest convenience. You represent the government that has given unlawful authorization to the polluters, Enbridge Gas Distributors and Canadian Hydro Developers. We need your help to stop this illegal encroachment on and destruction of one of our most environmentally sensitive areas.

Onen kiwahi, Women Title Holders of the Rotinonhsonnion:we

Kahentinetha /s/ _________________
Katenies s/s ___________________

Cc: Confederacy Chiefs Council, %Gayetweh, RR #6, Hagersville, On; Enbridge Gas Distributors Inc., 10 Churchill Drive, Barrie, Ontario L4N 8Z5 1-800-461-4480, grant.kilpatrick@enbridge.com ; Ann Hughes, Canadian Hydro Developers Inc., kent@canhydro.com, Suite 500, 134-17 Ave. SW., Calgary Alberta T7T 5S8.

poster: Thahoketoteh

 

Letter to Enbridge

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Women Title Holders of the Rotinonhsonnion:October 11, 2006

EMAIL/REGISTERED MAIL

Phil Mannell, General Manager, Enbridge Gas,
Central Region, 498 Markland St., Unit #1,
Markham, ON L6C 1Z6

NOTICE TO CEASE AND DESIST IMMEDIATELY BUILDING ILLEGAL GAS PIPELINE ON HALDIMAND TRACT

She:kon

Further to your letter of September 29th 2006, our concerns were very well explained to you in the DEMAND OF THE WOMEN TITLE HOLDERS OF ROTINONHSONNION:WE/SIX NATIONS TO ENBRIDGE GAS DISTRBUTION INC. OF BARRIE ONTARIO TO CEASE AND DESIST THE BUILDING OF A NATURAL GAS PIPELINE UNDER THE PINE RIVER IN HORNING’S MILLS ON THE HALDIMAND TRACT. We sent this and the “Mohawk Manifesto” to you on September 13, 2006.

We own this land. You did not consult the Women Title Holders who are the legal trustees of this land. You have no right to exploit our land. You did not get our permission and never will to put a gas pipeline under the Pine River.

You are trespassing. According to the Haldimand Proclamation of 1784 this land is for the “Mohawks and their posterity forever”. This position has not changed.

Your Open House Public Meeting or “Hot Dog Party” at the Horning’s Mills Community Center on May 30, 2006 does not qualify as consultation with the Indigenous landowners. None of those people attending have title to our land. They are all squatters except for one Mohawk who was there to see what you were up to.

At that Hot Dog Party, Thahoketoteh, a Kanion’ke:haka who lives in Horning’s Mills, asked your employee about the pollution. He smugly told us we’ll “just have to eat that”. A few weeks later Thahoketoteh told Grant Kilpatrick about the pollution problem in the river. He said that Enbridge had all the approvals, including from the Ministry of the Environment. Send us immediately a copy of your environmental approval.

Your plans, permits, orders and consents are all illegal. Your further destruction of the Pine River is a crime against our future children. Your plan to earn revenue supplying gas to people who are squatting on our land constitutes fraud and theft.

The Pine River is already in bad shape and needs cleaning. We plan to do that. Why don’t you re-read our Objection and the Mohawk Manifesto so you can stop trespassing and ruining our land.

You’ve given us a deadline of October 7th 2006 to answer you. This is our deadline to you! Get off our land immediately!! Take your mess with you! And don’t come back!

Onen,

Katenies /s/ ____________________
Kahentinetha /s/ _____________________

Cc: Hon. Stephen Harper, Government of Canada
Confederacy Chiefs, Six Nations
Women Title Holders, Six Nations Confederacy

poster: Thahoketoteh