Meeting with Legault deemed a positive step forward

08/17/2022

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke wishes to inform the community that the meeting held yesterday between Ohén:ton Í:iente ne Ratitsénhaienhs (Grand Chief) Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer, Ietsénhaienhs Tonya Perron and Quebec premier François Legault has been deemed a positive step forward in the relationship between Kahnawà:ke and Quebec.

The long-awaited first meeting between the two leaders took place at Mr. Legault’s office in Quebec City.

Topics discussed during the hour-long meeting included Kahnawà:ke’s concerns over Bill 96, the importance of the revitalization of the Kanien’kéha language, and the relationship between the MCK and the Quebec government.

“It took a long time, but we have always been of the firm belief that it is important to meet face-to-face – that’s the way to find solutions,” said Grand Chief Sky-Deer. “The premier made commitments to further discuss our issues with Bill 96, support our language and efforts to protect our culture, and to formalize the relationship processes between our governments in order to better find solutions to our issues.”

Importantly, Quebec is committing to contribute to the Multi-Purpose Building Project (new Cultural Center and Museum, Theatre, and Public Space). A formal announcement is forthcoming.

“We were pleased with the tone of the meeting,” concluded Grand Chief Sky-Deer. “But actions speak louder than words, and we shall see where yesterday’s meeting leads in the future.”