Mohawk nation at Akwesasne balances border life and fears about ICE

St. Lawrence County voted Feb. 2 to authorize local sheriff staff to be trained to use ICE databases, though the Department of Homeland Security says the memorandum with ICE has not yet been signed. DHS also reports there have been no ICE operations on tribal lands to date.

Residents of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne cross an international border daily as part of routine life and family ties. St. Lawrence County legislators voted on Feb. 2 to authorize the sheriff's office to sign a memorandum of agreement that would allow selected staff to use ICE databases. That decision has heightened concern among some community members who worry about interactions with U.S. immigration enforcement. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security says the memorandum has not yet been signed and that ICE has not conducted operations on tribal lands to date. Known facts: - On Feb. 2 the St. Lawrence County legislative board voted 11 to 4 to authorize the sheriff's office to sign a memorandum of agreement that would allow select staff to use ICE databases. - The Department of Homeland Security says the memorandum with ICE has not been signed and reports that ICE has not carried out operations on tribal lands to date. - The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne posted guidance urging members to carry status cards and tribal IDs and to note local law enforcement protocols. - The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police chief said ICE has not been present in the territory and emphasized ongoing partnerships and community policing. Summary: The county vote has heightened concern among people who move across the Akwesasne territory as part of daily life, while tribal leaders and police note existing local policing and rights. Officials say the agreement has not been finalized and it is unclear if or when ICE training for local officers would occur. New York state discussion has included proposed legislation to limit such agreements, but specific plans or timelines are undetermined at this time.