On (Ohiarí:ha/June 23, 2026) the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe (SRMT) Education Division held Path of Pages, a literacy walk where families collect book needs for summer reading. Hosted at The Travis Solomon Memorial Lacrosse Box at Generations Park, the event brought the community together to enjoy creative themed tents, a wide selection of books, refreshments, and a special book signing by illustrator Shaikara David.
Families moved from table to table, with SRMT departments, The Akwesasne Library, and Salmon River, each offering one book per family. Stations had engaging themes, from farm animals to a “Starbook Refreshers” setup serving Bev’s Brews, creating a fun and interactive experience for kids.
At the center of the event, a table displayed a wide range of books for all ages, including baby books, picture books and chapter books. The Executive Director’s Office also provided bookmarks that children could color, each having a positive affirmation. Outside the lacrosse box, Cray-Zee A’s snow cone truck offered a variety of flavors for everyone to enjoy on the bright sunny day.
David, an Akwesasne Mohawk illustrator, spoke about her work on Ribbon Rescue, a children’s book by renowned author Robert Munsch, known for his beloved picture books. As the illustrator, David shared that the main character, Jillian, a Mohawk girl who wears a pink ribbon dress inspired by her own childhood regalia.
She hopes young readers take away lessons of “generosity and kindness,” reflecting values rooted in her own Mohawk upbringing. “We’re always giving away our stuff… Oh, you need this? Take mine!” David shared, emphasizing the culture of sharing that continues to inspire her work.
The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe would like to give a special Niawen’kó:wa to the Education Division for organizing Path of Pages. This effort continues to promote literacy while creating space for Indigenous representation and storytelling that resonates with young readers in the community.