Chief Political Advisor Polson-Lahache to Leave Mohawk Council

K1037 News has learned that Winona Polson-Lahache is leaving the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK). She has been the Chief Political Advisor since November 2, 2015, and at the MCK since April, 2012. In that time, she has served under three Grand Chiefs, the late Joe Norton, Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer and, since late June, Cody Diabo.

“It’s been an absolute privilege,” Polson-Lahache said. “There’s no other way to encapsulate being in a role that has afforded me such a gracious opportunity to serve our community. The only reason I have ever done this kind of work is for that full reason, to serve our community and to try and ensure that the rights and interests are protected. And that’s what it’s always been about throughout all of these years.”

Her job will be posted soon.

Polson-Lahache says she doesn’t have another job lined up. She says she will remain on at the MCK to help her replacement learn the ropes, likely through February.

“I think that we’re leaving it in the hands of a very good team here operationally and I’m really hoping that this is also an opportunity for them to build and grow with a new individual,” she said.

After almost 13 years at the MCK, Polson-Lahache felt that now that the new council is settled, it was time for a break.

“The last few years have been a whirlwind with the train blockade and Covid. So, I understand her position in wanting and needing to take a little bit of time off. I am more than happy to help in that space,” Ohen:ton Í:rate Ne Ratitsenhaienhs Cody Diabo said. “She’s going to be really missed at the table. She’s been a staple at that table since I got in (2021) and even before then.”