MCK responds to community concerns regarding opening of local Head Shop

12/11/2013

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform Kahnawa’kehró:non that it shares community members’ concern regarding the opening of a business specializing in the sale of drug paraphernalia.

The business is a self-described ‘head shop’ and has published a flyer that utilizes images and many colloquial terms that are commonly-known drug references.

“We are especially upset that such a business that openly promotes and glorifies ‘weed culture’ has chosen to operate within a short distance from the Survival School,” said Chief Carl Horn. “Many community members feel that this type of business has no place in our community. We have serious drug problems and a ‘zero tolerance’ policy and, yet, someone feels that they have the right to engage in this activity.

“I think this is a horrible message to be sending” he concluded. 

While there is no law that specifically prohibits the sale of such products, the MCK, like many others, feels that the operation of this type of business within the Territory is ill-advised. The MCK has been in contact with various community leaders and agencies and is preparing a letter to be delivered to the owner and operator(s) of the business to formally inform them of the community’s concerns.