Kensi
Cayuga
Ohsweken
Born and raised on Six Nations of the Grand River territory, Kensi’s home has always been on the reserve and giving back to the community is an important part of her day-to-day life. That’s why when she came out—first as gay and then as trans—it was so important for her to do so on her reserve, the place where she is most comfortable and where she is supported by friends and family like Julee.
About this video: Six Nations of the Grand River
Six Nations of the Grand River is located in southern Ontario, just outside of the town of Brantford–which itself was named for Mohawk leader Joseph Brant. Just as its name indicates, Six Nations is made up of six distinct Indigenous Nations: Mohawk, Cayuga, Oneida, Seneca, Tuscarora and Onondaga. In addition to living throughout Canada, members of Six Nations also reside in Ontario at Wahta Mohawk Territory, Akwesasne Mohawk Territory, Oneida Nation of the Thames, and Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory.
The Six Nations were granted 950,000 acres of land along the Grand River under the 1784 Haldimand Treaty as a reward for aligning with Great Britain during the American Revolution. Today, the reserve is made up of 42,000 acres and has the largest population of all reserves in Canada.
Though situated in the heart of southern Ontario, the reserve still faces issues with clean drinking water and land rights.
Learn more about First Nations peoples by following the links on our resources page.
Share their stories, add yours, and celebrate Indigenous women you know. #SheisIndigenous
