Tiohatéhkwen Patton

Tiohatéhkwen is Wolf Clan Kanien’keha:ka, born and raised traditionally in Kahnawà:ke Territory. He is raising his daughter, Karonhiákwas, with the same traditional values and teachings of the Haudenosaúnee. Tiohatéhkwen was a member of the first cohort to graduate from Karonhianónhnha Mohawk Immersion Elementary School. At a very early age, he was able to pass the words of Ohen:ton Karihwatehkwen in his language. So, at Grade 1, Tiohatéhkwen was asked to begin the tradition of reciting these greetings at the start of each school day over the school loud speaker, inspiring his fellow students to follow his lead. This is a practice that has since expanded across Haudenosaúnee Communities within Turtle Island and has become a standard for our students in their formal education. On his graduation from secondary school, Kell’s Academy Montreal, he was acknowledged with the Humanitarian Award for his guidance in helping staff and students understand Kanien’kehá:ka traditions and history, at times having to clarify erroneous information contained in text books and programs. He is a graduate of Algonquin College, with a diploma in Pre-Med.

Tiohatéhkwen continues to share his knowledge of culture and traditional social songs with those who are interested in learning. He has opened various events, occasionally singing with his daughter, at gatherings including McGill University, Tribe Called Red, Words and Music in Westmount Park and various schools around the Montreal and Ottawa area. Tiohatéhkwen is an active member of the Mohawk Trail Longhouse. Professionally, Tiohatéhkwen is a Recreational Program Animator/Coordinator and works with youth in the community of Kahnawá:ke. He is currently volunteering monthly to lead a Family Social Singing Practice for youth and families to build their knowledge, talent and confidence to sing our songs and learn our dances.