Akwesasne Winter Carnival Snowflake Gathering and Opening Ceremony

On February 11, 2016, the Akwesasne Winter Carnival kicked off with the Snowflake Gathering at Iakhihsohtha Lodge in Tsi Snaihne. Cultural educators from the Native North American Traveling College said the opening address as part of the first day of activities. Following the opening, a social took place. Community members participated in social dances, including the stomp dance, the round dance and women's dance. Thomas Jacobs (Wolf clan), Beatrice White (Wolf clan), Charlotte Francis (Deer clan), Mary Herne (Snipe clan), Esther Burnham (Bear clan), Lilly Benedict (Turtle clan) and Viola Marshall (Eel clan) who are all residents of Iakhihsohtha, also joined in on the fun. Each resident was beautifully dressed in regalia that represented their respective clans.

Johanne Jackson and May Green officially welcome everyone at Iakhihsohtha after the social and opening. They spoke about the upcoming winter carnival activities. As part of their welcome they explained that the Winter Carnival is being hosted by Kanatakon this year, but events will be taking place throughout the Akwesasne Community. Johanne Jackson also made a special announcement about a photo compilation CD that she created for the 25th anniversary of the Winter Carnival. Photos on the CD were taken over the last 25 years of the annual Winter Carnival. She encouraged everyone to view the compilation CD which will be shown at the Winter Carnival events throughout the community.