Clinton Community College Raises Haudenosaunee Flag

Clinton Community College is now flying the Haudenosaunee flag at its administration building, acknowledging that the institution is located on the traditional homelands of the Haudenosaunee, the People of the Longhouse, and specifically the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk), the People of the Land of the Flint.

A ceremony was held Wednesday, May 6, to raise the flag for the first time on the porch of the college’s administration building at 133 Court St.

The event included a formal land acknowledgment, followed by a performance of the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen (Thanksgiving Address), presented in song by Akwesasne singer and songwriter Bear Fox. The Thanksgiving Address is a traditional Haudenosaunee expression of gratitude, offering greetings and thanks to the natural world.

Following the raising of the Haudenosaunee flag, attendees were invited to share a meal featuring Three Sisters stew, fry bread and strawberry drink.

“We are committed to fostering an inclusive campus community where all people feel safe, respected and welcome,” Acting President Ken Knelly said. “This visible land acknowledgment is offered as an act of respect and recognition, and to honor and uplift Indigenous students, employees and community members.”

That intent was echoed by Jessica Cree Jock, education director for the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe, who emphasized the Haudenosaunee flag’s deeper meaning and role in encouraging reflection and understanding.

“The flag represents unity among the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and reflects values like peace, strength and shared responsibility,” Cree Jock said. “When it is displayed here, it becomes more than a symbol. It represents a message. It shows that this institution is taking a step forward in recognition and respect. For Haudenosaunee students, this message matters.”

The Haudenosaunee flag will remain on display alongside the flags of the United States and New York state at the college’s administration building.