Tom Porter (Mohawk), a Nationally Recognized Figure in Indian Country Since the 1960s, Received Lifetime Achievement Award

Tom Porter (Mohawk)

Published June 24, 2019

Sacred Fire Foundation presented Mr. Porter with 2019 Wisdom Fellowship Award on June 22, 2019 in New York City.

NEW YORK — Tom Porter (Sakokwenionkwas – “The One Who Wins”) Haudenosaunee Educator, Elder and Spiritual Leader, a member of the Bear Clan of the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne, received the Wisdom Fellowship Award for 2019 from the Sacred Fire Foundation (www.sacredfirefoundation.org).

The Wisdom Fellowship Award is presented annually to honor the work of an elder who has demonstrated lifelong achievement in bringing wisdom, leadership and learning to their people and community.

Mr. Porter was recognized for his lifelong service and commitment to his community, located in the ancestral Mohawk Valley of New York State.

He is a champion for the revitalization of native languages and traditions, devoting his life to implementing programs that facilitate the understanding of Indigenous culture.  He has been widely recognized and honored for his work.

Mr. Porter was accompanied by his wife Alice Joe Porter as well as many members from his immediate family.  Guests from as far away as Brazil attended to witness Mr. Porter’s award ceremony.

Sacred Fire Foundation Board of Trustees President Keiko Cronin said, “Tom Porter has dedicated his life to ensuring that the Mohawk nation and tradition will thrive for generations to come.  He is an inspiration to many and we are very excited to be presenting this year’s Wisdom Fellowship Award to someone so deeply deserving.”