MCK requests AFN Chief Atleo address Kahnawake concerns regarding AFN role in Education Act

02/27/2014

The Mohawk Council of Kahnaw�:ke (MCK) would like to inform the community that it has sent a letter to Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn Atleo in regard to the AFN�s role regarding federal legislation on education (now known as the First Nations Control of First Nations Education Act, or FNCFNEA).

The letter demonstrates that Kahnaw�:ke is clearly displeased with the AFN�s actions in this matter and requests actions be taken to address these concerns.

�The ambiguity surrounding the FNCFNEA, coupled with the engagement of the AFN, leaves us concerned that the federal government may interpret such engagement as implied consent,� wrote Grand Chief Michael Ahr�hron Delisle, Jr. �This is an issue that must be clarified immediately.�

The letter also informs the AFN of Kahnaw�:ke�s position of the liberties taken by the AFN to negotiate the agreement. �We�do not charge the AFN with the authority to arrive at decision-making in legislative processes that impact our Rights,� it continues. �Only Kahnaw�:ke retains decision-making authority in its own affairs.�

Grand Chief Delisle concluded by informing the AFN that the FNCFNEA does not meet the free, prior and informed consent of Kahnaw�:ke, and requests the AFN confirms this shared understating by letter.

The letter can be viewed in its entirety at www.kahnawake.com . Copies have been circulated to the Iroquois Caucus, Quebec Regional Chief Ghislain Picard, Chief Gilbert Whiteduck & the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Council, the First Nations Education Council and the Kahnaw�:ke Education Center.