Remembrance Day in Kahnawake

Under a grey November sky, the sound of drums echoed through the streets, flags waved gently in the breeze, footsteps marched, and quiet reflection filled the streets of Kahnawake on Saturday as community members gathered for the annual Remembrance Day parade. Veterans, families, and youth walked side by side to pay tribute to those who served and to those who continue to carry the spirit of service within the community.

Members of the Kahnawake Legion Branch 219 led the march through the community, concluding at the cenotaph with prayers, wreath-laying’s, and heartfelt songs of remembrance. For Ray Deer, retired veteran and president of the Legion, the parade represents both remembrance and renewal.

“We had an excellent turnout. And as you can see, the Creator was with us, because he didn’t let it snow on us again this year,” Deer said. But for him, the event is about honouring the fallen veterans and acknowledging their long-lasting presence in the community.

“I’m trying to make certain that the veterans are acknowledged. And when that’s accomplished, that’s what the president is supposed to do. The payment is watching the faces of our people, watching the faces of my grandson following in my footsteps, my family, and if they’re proud, you know, it makes it all worth it.”

Kahnawake has a strong history of service, something Deer is proud to highlight. “The community has always had a huge side in the Warrior Society, our warriors, which are now our veterans.”

This sentiment was echoed by Mohawk Council of Kahnawake Chief Ryan Montour, who reflected on the day’s events. “We salute our service members in the morning with a nice big breakfast or the community donated by KSCS (Kahnawake Shakotia’takehnhas Community Services) and The Rail. Then we have the cemetery ceremony, followed by the marching ceremony to the cenotaph, and afterwards, a great meal.”

Montour, who has participated in every parade for decades, reflected on the day, marching alongside fellow veterans.

“There’s a lot of pride and honour in participating. It’s one day that we get to remember, and I’m glad that a lot of people are showing up. I think it speaks volumes.”

He also described the important 10 a.m. ceremony: “We march to the cemetery and give veterans a last post. Then we get ready for the big parade to the community-wide ceremonies. The place where veterans have fallen or are laid to rest for the last time, it’s important that we go there to honour them.”

Among the marchers was retired veteran Gerald Alfred, who served from 1982 to 1985. For him, the parade is a deeply personal moment. “To feel young again, marching in a parade alongside other soldiers, Marines, and sailors, is an important experience,” Alfred said. “But more importantly, it’s about honouring those who sacrificed a lot in their lives, protecting our land.”

Looking ahead, Deer expressed optimism for the future of the parade. “Next year I’m doing this again. I’m going to look forward to it. Next year we’ll build on what we did the last two years. The last two years have been phenomenal.”

The Remembrance Day parade remains a powerful expression of community spirit in Kahnawake. Montour emphasized the continuity of this tradition. “We have the largest veteran population, over 300 veterans in our history. It shows the warrior spirit we have in all of us.”

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