Ernest Kaientaronkwen Benedict – The Canadian Encyclopedia

May 12, 2026

Ernest M. Kaientaronkwen Benedict, Kanyen’kehá:ka (Mohawk) educator, activist, chief (born 14 July 1918 in Hogansburg, NY; died 8 January 2011 in Cornwall, ON). Elder Ernest Benedict was renowned for a lifetime of advancing Indigenous sovereignty, cultural preservation and Indigenous-controlled education. He did this through various initiatives he started or supported.

Elder Ernest Kaientaronkwen Benedict in 2007

Elder Ernest Kaientaronkwen Benedict was a Kanyen’kehá:ka Elder and leader who advocated for Indigenous sovereignty, Indigenous control of Indigenous education and cultural preservation. He was instrumental in the creation of the North American Indian Traveling College (now the Native North American Traveling College) as well as the journal Akwesasne Notes.

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