Monday, June 8, 2009

Mohawk Protest Could Lead to Permanent Closure of Border Crossing

The Seaway International Bridge, which spans the St. Lawrence River and links Canada to the United State along the northern border of New York State, could be closed permanently unless Akwesasne Mohawk Indians accept the Canadian government’s decision to arm border guards at the crossing. 

Speaking on a Canadian news program yesterday, Peter Van Loan, Canada’s Public Safety Minister, said there would be no exceptions to the decision and federal officials were considering several options, including moving the border crossing to another location. The crossing at Cornwall Island, which is Mohawk land, handles about 2.4 million passengers a year.

Canada Border Services Agency workers left their posts on Cornwall Island, citing safety concerns, just before midnight May 31 in advance of an Akwesasne Mohawk protest.  Protesters say they are worried that arming guards could lead to violence on their land.  Read more here.

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