Akwesasne TV to Launch Broadcast On October 2nd
Sep 24, 2015
AKWESASNE, NY—– The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe is pleased to announce the “light launch” of Akwesasne TV on October 2, 2015. Owned by the Tribe and Mohawk Network, LLC; the newly developed television station will be broadcasting traditional and contemporary television programming utilizing the latest information sharing technology.
Akwesasne TV was envisioned in 2013 as part of the developmental phase of the Tribe’s Broadband Initiative and has grown to become part of the broadband project’s larger vision. Following two years of intensive planning and coordination, the concept of an Akwesasne-based television station is now poised to become reality.
“I am quite pleased with the progress that we have made on this endeavor. The possibilities are quite expansive and will make a positive impact on Akwesasne,” stated Tribal Chief Eric Thompson. He added, “When first contemplated, the offering of language and cultural programming immediately sprung to mind, almost instantaneously, however; the broader implications and applications became apparent and included a broad palette of programming from sports to politics to culture to current events and news. Akwesasne TV has done a great job in bringing this vision to fruition.”
Akwesasne TV focuses on broadcasting Native-produced content in a wide host of programming; such as Mohawk language education and culture, public affairs, news, entertainment, sports, and more. They strive to deliver authentic story-telling through magazine-style shows, documentaries, dramatic series and arts programming.
According to Akwesasne TV Executive Producer Regan Jacobs, “We want Akwesasne TV to be a reflection of Akwesasne and to accurately portray the lives and concerns of Indigenous People throughout Indian Country. We approach each program with the goal of developing content that shows who and where we are today, as a Native people and as Native nations.”
Akwesasne TV’s coverage won’t be limited to the Akwesasne community. They also aspire to report on topics relevant to neighboring communities and other First Nations. Their expanded coverage supports efforts to present stories that are factual and to help increase an understanding of various points of view. They are currently working on the capability to broadcast nationally.
To showcase their services and programming, the television station is inviting the community to come and visit their new ATV studio located in Akwesasne, NY at 2915 State Route 95 located near the intersection of State Routes 37 and 95.Although they are not fully operational, they encourage individuals to join them for a “light launch” and luncheon beginning at 11:30 a.m.
Akwesasne TV is currently available on Akwesasne’s Broadband Network channel 2, and online at www.akwesasnetv.com. You can follow them on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.
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Please direct media inquiries to the Communications Department at 518-358-2272 or email communications@srmt-nsn.gov.