We are a group of Muslim youth working under the Muslim Indigenous Connection and have taken the last couple of months to learn about Indigenous peoples and how we can connect with them while also learning how we can support them.  We have decided to hold a fundraiser to save the only indigenous immersion school.  

The Kawenni:io/Gaweni:yo Elementry and Secondary School is the only language immersion school that offers Cayagua and Mohawk languages from kindergarten up to Grade 12. The school has never had a building of its own and has been operating from the second floor of the Iroquois Lacrosse Arena for over a decade. They’ve had to move locations many, many times, sometimes in the middle of a school year. 

Currently, students only have access to small classrooms, which limits the number of students that may attend the school. In addition, the current building lacks appropriate air ventilation, running water in the classrooms, and has only two bathrooms, which are shared by staff and students. Half of the classrooms are windowless, and the concrete floors don't allow proper heating or ventilation.

The school needs a permanent home to continue preserving and revitalizing indigenous languages, culture, and way of life for current and future generations. They aim to preserve their traditions and identity, as well as prepare students for life after high school.

By donating we can help provide an education for indigenous youth that will provide everlasting knowledge for many generations which can help save the Cayagua and Mohawk languages and culture while providing education to indigenous children in a suitable learning environment.

If you are interested in attending our virtual fundraiser please register here or by using this link: https://soundvision.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tOwWosIHRLSxsQG6eg5dkg