Membership
HERE FOR OUR PEOPLE
Access membership services, registration support, status card information, and guidance on matters concerning your membership in Kanehsatà:ke.
Ionkwateriwaièn:ni
Mission Statement
The Membership Department of the Mohawk Council of Kanehsatà:ke is dedicated to preserving and protecting the rights and identity of our people. We ensure fair and accurate management of the registry, secure status card services, and guidance on membership matters so that every member can access their rights, benefits, and recognition as Mohawks of Kanehsatà:ke.
Services
Membership Administration
The department is responsible for maintaining Kanehsatà:ke’s band list and processing new registrants.
Support for Registration and Status Cards
The department offers support to members who require it, for new registrations, renewals, replacements, and temporary confirmations. Members who don’t require any special assistance may renew their card (or get it replaced) themselves.
Official Letters
Lineage Letter
The Lineage Letter issued by the Membership Department provides official confirmation of an individual’s ancestral connection. The Department ensures that all lineage verifications are conducted with care, accuracy, and respect for community knowledge and historical records. A Lineage Letter may be required in a variety of situations, which include access to programs and services offered specifically to community members or descendants, participation in cultural, educational, or language initiatives, and eligibility for certain Indigenous-specific funding, scholarships, or employment opportunities. I
Blood Quantum Letter
The Blood Quantum Letter issued by the Membership Department certifies the degree of Kanien’kehá:ka ancestry an individual possesses, as calculated through documented lineage and community records. The Membership Department approaches the issuance of Blood Quantum Letters with sensitivity, recognizing the historical and cultural complexities surrounding blood quantum policies, and remains committed to handling all requests with confidentiality, respect, and in alignment with community values. This letter is sometimes requested for administrative purposes by external institutions or organizations in more specific administrative or external contexts where a quantified measure of ancestry is required.
Notify of a death
In the unfortunate situation of a member’s passing, notifying Membership and providing a copy of the Death Certificate are part of the Succession’s responsibilities. Please contact the Membership Manager or book an appointment HERE to begin the process.
Address change
FAQ
What is the difference between Status and Membership?
Status is federal recognition under the Indian Act and is recorded in the Indian Register. Membership means being listed on the Kanehsatà:ke Band List under Section 11 of the Indian Act.
What is an Indian Registration Administrator (IRA) ?
An Indian Registration Administrator (IRA) is a band employee on reserve who does work related to the administration of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) programs. IRAs are delegated specific authorities by the Indian Registrar. The roles of IRAs vary from band to band. By working at the band level on behalf of ISC, IRAs are able to maintain the Register and help band members apply for Indian status and status cards.
What documents do I need to begin registering a child?
A birth certificate naming both parents, plus proof of at least one parent’s Status. Additional documents may be required.
How do I renew or replace my Status Card?
How do I renew or replace my Status Card?
- Renew with OneFeather: For cards expiring in 6+ months and for cards expiring in less than 6 months, you may renew with OneFeather’s platform. A fee of 20$ is applicable, but reimbursed upon submitting the invoice to the Membership Manager . (INSERT “Access OneFeather” BUTTON)
- Renew via a form : For cards expiring in 6+ months and for cards expiring in less than 6 months.
- Replace a Card if lost, stolen, or damaged.
When can I start the renewal process for my Status Card?
It is strongly recommended to renew your card 6 MONTHS OR MORE before its expiry date, as the process is much simpler and the waiting period much quicker.
Do I need an appointment with the Membership Manager or Membership Clerk to renew my Status Card?
No, you do not. You can renew it yourself by using the appropriate form or by using the OneFeather platform code (service fee may apply) . If you require assistance, for yourself or for an elder, please book an appointment using the booking tool and selecting the appropriate service.
What happens if my Status Card is lost or stolen?
Notify the Membership Office and complete a replacement application. Temporary confirmation may be available while you wait.
How do I request official letters?
The Membership Department can issue lineage letters and blood quantum letters upon request. Please contact Niioieren Caroline Gélinas to request a letter.
Do I need to notify the Membership Department if I change my address?
Yes. Members should update their address with the Membership Department to ensure they receive important communications and maintain accurate records.
Does moving away from Kanehsatà:ke affect my membership?
No. Membership is not dependent on residency. Members retain their rights regardless of where they live
I’m not a member of the Mohawks of Kanehsatà:ke but I think I have the right to be. Does the MCK or the Membership Department offer genealogy services?
No, the Mohawk Council of Kanehsatà:ke does not provide genealogy services to non-members.
An Application for Genealogy Search is available online. If you’d like to know more about your origins, please consult a professional genealogist or use an online self-service genealogy tool of your choice.
