A Mohawk language program offered by the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) has been suspended as the board conducts a review of the program and processes such as how it recruits its instructors. “Spending necessary time to review and renew teaching and learning practices to ensure that Indigenous language instruction is accurate, authentic and accountable to Indigenous learners, families and communities is vital,” said a statement shared by a HWDSB spokesperson. HWDSB Indigenous education lead Jolene John said that more work is needed to “untangle understandings regarding MSL teacher candidates,” as there is a limited pool of individuals who meet the definitions of being both “qualified” and authentic speakers. Christina Barahona said that her kids loved the program and described hearing that the program would be suspended as upsetting.