(Kahnawake) The Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) does not rule out resorting to the courts against Bill 96 of the government of François Legault. The reform of the Charter of the French language, perceived as a brake on the educational success of Aboriginal children, was denounced during the announcement Thursday of the federal government of a billion dollars for education.
Posted at 12:42 p.m.
Chief Ghislain Picard indicated that this was a demanding process and that therefore the Aboriginal leadership of Quebec will have to take the time to reflect before making its decision.
The reform of the Charter of the French language adopted in May made French the only official and common language of Quebec. It does not apply in Aboriginal communities, but still affects more than half of First Nations students who, for lack of a school in their community, must attend school in French even if they have English or an indigenous language as a mother tongue. Many of them therefore have more difficulty obtaining their high school diploma, argues the AFNQL.
The impact of this reform was raised during the announcement of a regional education agreement for 22 Aboriginal communities across Quebec. Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu and Chief Picard were in attendance.
The envelope totals 1.1 billion, including 310.6 million in fresh money, and will be spread over five years. This amount should enable communities to develop a school program adapted to their cultures, recruit or retain 600 teachers and specialists, better finance school transportation, improve academic success and increase the number of secondary school graduates.
The press conference was followed by an agreement signing ceremony. Aboriginal leaders and representatives from the education sector of these 22 communities are present at the Kahnawake Survival School where the event takes place.
Further details will follow.