“Today we have gathered and we see that the cycles of life continue. We have been given the duty to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things. So now, we bring our minds together as one as we give greetings and thanks to each other as people. Now our minds are one.”
These powerful words, from the Mohawk Tribe’s thanksgiving address, begin each day at the Akwesasne Freedom School, situated within the St. Regis Mohawk Reservation near the Canadian border. Founded in 1979, the school’s mission is to deeply immerse Mohawk children in their culture, beliefs, and language, ensuring the preservation of these traditions.
As the school plans a new addition to its facilities, it has organized a significant fundraising event featuring none other than the Grammy-winning artist Valerie June. The benefit concert will take place on Saturday, August 10, at the Griffin House in Palenville, offering a unique blend of live music, dance, and art.
The event, which will support the school’s expansion, is orchestrated by local musician Matthew O’Neill, founder of the Underwater Panther Coalition, a label dedicated to indigenous music. Originally set to occur at the iconic sculpture park Opus 40, the venue had to be relocated due to logistical challenges. The owners of Griffin House, Simone Felice of The Felice Brothers, and his wife Jessica Walsh, graciously offered their outdoor space, with Hudson Valley-based event organizer Chosen Family stepping in to assist with the transition.
A highlight of the event will be the performance by Kontiwennenha:wi, a traditional all-female singing group from the Mohawk Nation of Akwesasne, reflecting the school’s commitment to preserving Mohawk culture. The Akwesasne Freedom School integrates traditional Mohawk beliefs and language into every subject, aiming to ensure that these cultural pillars endure in modern society.
Chosen Family cofounder Mike Amari emphasizes the importance of this educational approach, stating, “For me, Akwesasne Freedom School is an example of how indigenous culture and language, in this case, Mohawk, can be preserved and passed on through generations, and not lost like so much has been. They are one of very few schools of this type outside of the big reservations.”
The evening will begin with remarks from Elder Tom Porter, followed by a performance by Theresa “Bear” Fox and her all-female group Kontiwennenha:wi, singing in the Mohawk language. The event will also feature pop electro-R&B artist Semiah Smith, who will share her songs of love and resilience. Additionally, children from the school will perform traditional smoke and hoop dances, further highlighting the cultural richness of the Mohawk Nation. Valerie June will close the event with a solo performance.
Mike Amari draws a parallel between this event and a benefit concert held by Pete Seeger for the Akwesasne Notes, a now-defunct National Indigenous newspaper, in Albany in 1987. “Like Pete, Valerie is very much an artist that uses her name and following to shine a light on causes important to her,” says Amari.
This benefit concert not only underscores the significance of cultural preservation but also highlights the vital role of community and artistry in supporting the future of the Akwesasne Freedom School.
