Wendake, September 20, 2023 — The AFNQL denounces self-proclaimed “Métis” groups and the federal government’s intention to recognize their rights. Only First Nations hold Aboriginal rights and title. The AFN strongly supports the resolution adopted at the AFN’s annual general meeting held last week in Halifax, entitled 44/2023 “Protecting the Rights and Interests of First Nations Against Unfounded Métis Rights Claims.”
The W8banaki, Anishnabeg, Atikamekw, Eeyou Cree, Innu, Mi’gmaq, Kanien’keha:ka, Naskapi, Wendat, and Wolastogivik Nations have occupied their territories since time immemorial. First Nations members identify with these territories, their titles, rights, cultures, languages, and modes of governance.
By supporting this resolution, the AFNQL denounces the claims of self-proclaimed “Métis” groups. The AFNQL also strongly objects to the federal government’s recent intention to legislate to recognize their rights and calls on the government to cease all such efforts without the free, prior, and informed consent of First Nations.
“Only Nations know and recognize their members, regardless of where they live. There is no ‘Métis’ Nation on our territories, there never has been, and there never will be,” says Grand Chief Savanna McGregor, Grand Chief of the Algonquin Anishnabeg Tribal Council.
“Governments, whether federal, provincial, or territorial, have neither the legitimacy nor the power to create new nations, recognize their usurped rights, and thereby compromise the ongoing reconciliation process with First Nations,” warns Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.
“Using our ancestors and families to support their illegitimate claims and self-proclamations is shameful. This legislation and the recognition of non-existent historical communities are yet another glaring example of the extent to which this government is willing to usurp our rights,” explains Dylan Whiteduck, Chief of the Kitigan Zibi First Nation.