The Mohawk community of Kahnawake is ready to lay the groundwork for the realisation of many dreams on a sizable parcel of land near to the Kahnawake Survival School (KSS).
In Kahnawake, preparation work will soon start for the construction of a multi-purpose structure that has been planned for years.
Kyle Zachary, the president of Turtle Island Theatre, said: “With this building rising, the arts will have a permanent home in our community, and we’re really grateful for that.”
The theatre took a break in 2013 due to a number of problems, including a lack of suitable space, but it has since come back together with the possibility of a new centre looming.
Zachary added, “We won’t have to worry about renting two different places and it eating up much of our budget.
The community’s tourism bureau will also be housed in the structure in addition to the theatre. The previous cultural centre and museum will likewise be replaced by it.
According to Chief Jessica Lazare, “They were in an already decrepit building with roof leaks and squirrels living in among the children and employees.”
According to Chief Lazare, the building should serve as a focal point for the revival of Mohawk culture and serve as a repository for priceless treasures that are being returned to the area, such some antiques from the Lachine Museum, an old fur trading centre.
Maja Vodanovic, the mayor of Lachine, says she is keen to collaborate with Kahnawake so that the people may share their perspective on history.
Vodanovic stated, “I want to assist them tell their tale in their own way. It was always told by us.
Vodanovic is a member of the fundraising committee for the cultural centre in Kahnawake.
Out of the expected cost of $37 million, the board needs to generate $16 million.
The ideal initiative for reconciliation, according to Vodanovic, “should be investing in this project for everybody who wants anything to be put back right.”
Chief Jessica Lazare expresses her shock at the outpouring of support.
“These folks in the cabinet, some of whom are not Indigenous, show just how much heart and how much willingness there is to support our community and our people by being so passionate about this project.
According to Chief Lazare, the project will be finished in 2025.
Online donations will soon be allowed, according to the organisers; for additional information, send an email to info@planitkahnawake.ca.
Building a new cultural centre and multipurpose structure in Kahnawake
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