NationTalk – Premier François Legault indicated that, on the one hand, the Indigenous Nations must be recognized, but on the other hand, there is a risk of “giving” them a veto over Québec’s development. The Assembly of First Nations Quebec and Labrador proposes to begin discussions between the provincial government and First Nations right now on the recognition of Nations as well as on the scope of the Aboriginal and treaty rights of all First Nations.

“Premier Legault must first realize that this is not about “giving” rights, but about recognizing rights. The colonial regime has left its mark. The Premier of Quebec must also admit that any recognition of Nations without specifying the rights it implies would be meaningless. In a recent survey, the Quebec population shows an openness, a willingness to better understand First Nations issues. Is the Legault government ready to follow the path indicated by the population? is the Legault government ready to undertake a deep and sincere reflection on the relationship it wants to develop with First Nations? Will it instead continue to be inspired by principles dating back to the colonial era?