Wendake, July 18, 2019 – The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) is concerned about the situation between the Mayor of the Municipality of Oka and the community of Kanehsatake. “The comments that are reported remind us of the slippages that only exacerbated the tensions between the Mohawk Nation and the Quebec population in the summer of 1990. At this time, it is irresponsible to raise the risk of another Oka Crisis” said Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL, who appealed for calm and asked all parties to give dialogue a chance.
The AFNQL welcomes the decision by Mr. Grégoire Gollin who, in a spirit of openness and reconciliation, agreed to cede part of the lands that were at the heart of the 1990 “Crisis”. Why condemn the decision of a person who, obviously, like the Mohawk Nation, has become exasperated at the political dead end allowing for a lasting resolution of the territorial litigation of the past three decades?
The AFNQL also wishes to acknowledge the openness of Grand Chief Serge Simon who invited the population of Oka to an information session so that they can be adequately informed of the issues facing the community of Kanehsatake. “In these circumstances, Grand Chief Simon’s opening gesture demonstrates his good faith and must be commended. Engaging the dialogue can certainly prevent the situation from deteriorating. It is about the harmonious relationship that everyone wants between neighbours living on the same territory”, concluded the Chief of the AFNQL.
About the AFNQL The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is the political organization regrouping 43 Chiefs of the First Nations in Quebec and Labrador. Follow us on Twitter @APNQL
