Passing on the art of Kanien’kehá:ka basketry, one lesson at a time – CBC

April 15, 2024

4-week workshop at Kahnawà:ke is part of community’s Cultural Awareness Month

Chelsea Phillips learned how to make traditional Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) baskets three years ago, and now is teaching others in her community.

“It’s part of our culture, and part of our roles and responsibilities, there’s certain baskets that go along with that,” said Phillips, who is from Kahnawà:ke, south of Montreal.

“I want to incorporate the teachings of the baskets so it keeps our culture alive.”

Phillips is teaching a four-week basket-making class at the Kahnawà:ke Youth Center as one of the many activities taking place throughout the community’s annual Cultural Awareness Month.

Participants are learning how to weave a small round fancy basket out of black ash splints and sweetgrass.

Read More: https://www.cbc.ca/news/indigenous/basket-making-kahnawake-1.7172151