The community also celebrated another milestone: the completion of the long-awaited lacrosse box on Cornwall Island. Initiated in 2018, this project represents years of dedication and perseverance, further showcasing Akwesasne’s commitment to fostering spaces where culture, sport, and community come together.
Projects Like This Are Made Possible Through the Generosity of Donors Who Believe in the Power of Community
Every donation to Strong Roots Charitable Foundation directly impacts our ability to support meaningful initiatives, like the construction of the new lacrosse box in Snye. Your generosity helps us preserve cultural traditions, create safe spaces for youth, and promote community-driven projects that make Akwesasne stronger. With your support, we can continue building opportunities for the future while honoring the legacy of our shared heritage.
The grand opening event was a joyous occasion, attended by community members, local dignitaries, and representatives from Strong Roots.
In a celebration of culture, community, and athleticism, the Akwesasne Mohawk Community recently marked the grand opening of a new lacrosse box in the district of Snye. Built with support from the Strong Roots Charitable Foundation, this modern facility reflects the community’s deep commitment to honoring and continuing the tradition of lacrosse, or “Tewaaraton” — The Creator’s Game.
The lacrosse box, a vital addition to the community, is more than just a venue for sports; it is a cultural cornerstone. The game of lacrosse holds deep historical significance for the Haudenosaunee. It is viewed not only as a sport but as a gift from the creator to honor our elders and community.
The project came to fruition through a $100,000 donation from the Strong Roots Charitable Foundation, an organization committed to enhancing the quality of life for Akwesasne residents. The foundation, steered by a board of local entrepreneurs and community members, has been pivotal in creating economic and cultural development within the region. This lacrosse box project is part of their ongoing efforts to support community-based initiatives that provide safe, drug-free environments for youth.
The construction of the lacrosse box was a collaborative effort. Funding for the cement slab was sourced from Strong Roots and the Quebec Government, while the construction was executed by AEM and Toby Roundpoint Construction. Additional amenities, such as lighting, were supported by community fundraising and donations. This facility further strengthens Strong Roots commitment to creating spaces where tradition and modernity intersect, offering more opportunities for youth to engage in the sport that is integral to their heritage.
The new lacrosse box is more than just a sports facility; it’s a space where Akwesasne youth can connect with their heritage and develop their skills in the game that has deep roots in their culture. As the community comes together to celebrate its opening, they also recognize lacrosse’s lasting role in bringing people together and preserving tradition.
When I talked about family structures with Beauvais, I heard something similar. Describing her efforts on Akwesasne, she says, “This is about family. We are creating a system of family, not an institutional program. We are giving people roles and responsibilities as family members of a community.” While families come in many forms, she is steadfast in her belief that family and kinship are essential to a community’s self-sustenance and sovereignty. It’s what gives her hope when standing up to a history of exploitation.
From left, Cornwall Celtics goalie Wishe Benedict, Akwesasne Strong Roots Foundation board member Robyn Terrance, Akwesasne Strong Roots Foundation administrator Chessie White, and Celtics goalie Zac Coir at the presentation of a donation from the team to the foundation on Friday May 20, 2022 in Cornwall, Ont. Robert Lefebvre/Special to the Cornwall Standard-Freeholder/Postmedia Network PHOTO BY ROBERT LEFEBVRE /Robert Lefebvre/Special to the Standard-Freeholder
Friday’s Cornwall Jr. C Celtics game at the Benson Centre saw a special donation take place, made possible through the proceeds of the Celtic’s home opener.
A cheque for $900 was presented to representatives of Strong Roots Charitable Foundation, which is an organization focused on developing community initiatives to improve life for Akwesasne elders and youth.
“Indigenous people created this beautiful game of lacrosse that we love and… we kind of wanted to do something to give back to their community,” explained co-manager of the Jr. C Celtics, Carrie Cooper, with fellow co-manager, Laurie Williams, by her side. “So we looked for different charitable organizations and came across Strong Roots.”
Cooper and Williams are very inspired by Strong Roots’ initiatives. This includes when, in 2015, Strong Roots put a roof over the Travis Solomon Memorial Lacrosse Box located in Generations Park, and when Strong Roots donated 700 lacrosse sticks to support the Iroquois Nationals Lacrosse Program.
AKWESASNE — A $25,000 grant from Arconic will help complete four tiny homes to provide temporary housing for Mohawk men and women on their path towards regaining their personal and cultural identity after being released from incarceration.
AKWESASNE MOHAWK TERRITORY — The Strong Roots Charitable Foundation announced it has raised $107,400 during their 6th Annual Charity Cup Golf Tournament. Held on August 27th at the Malone Golf Club, the fundraising event will help support the Foundation’s efforts to enrichen the health, safety and well-being of Akwesasne youth and elders.
“This year’s Annual Charity Cup was a tremendous success, due in part to the companies who benefit from doing business in Akwesasne. This is by far the most successful charity golf tournament we’ve held so far, which is an indication of the strong commitment and desire of businesses to help give back to our community,” said Strong Roots Charitable Foundation Administrator Chessie Thomas.
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