By Patrick Quinn  Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The tragic drowning of eight people attempting to cross illegally into the United States has shone an unfortunate light on the Kanien’keha:ka (Mohawk) community of Akwesasne, which straddles the Ontario, Quebec and New York state borders and is divided by the St. Lawrence River.   The reserve’s unique geography has long made it a popular smuggling conduit for tobacco, drugs, weapons and people. With Akwesasne’s Casey Oakes still missing in connection with the deaths, Grand Chief Abram Benedict said that the tragedy has taken a toll on the community of 20,000, particularly on the first responders who helped with the search.   “The tragedy that struck our community has tested the fortitude of our first responders to possibly an unprecedented level,” posted Kyle

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