After the publication of the text “Towards a coalition between First Nations and Quebecers? », published in The duty of June 21, 2022 on National Indigenous Peoples Day, author Jocelyn Lauzon and a member of the First Peoples, Pierre-Luc Gauthier, initiated a correspondence. In order to launch a discussion between our two cultures, we write this text in all humility, as a possible basis on which real experts or organizations could lean.
We are only two citizens and we act with good intentions, without consultation with the groups mentioned in the project. We do not pretend to represent our cultures, but we suggest a basis for discussion as engaged citizens from these cultures. If this suggestion can lead to something else, so much the better; otherwise, we will continue our efforts in this direction.
Whereas the cultures of the First Peoples, Quebecois and Anglo-Saxon on the territory of Quebec are equal to each other and that there should be no competition between these cultures.
Whereas the First Peoples on Quebec territory are the following: Anishinabeg (Algonquins), Atikamekw Nehirowisiwok (Atikamekw), Eeyou and Eenou (Cree), Huron-Wendat, Innu, Inuk, Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk), Mi’ gmaq, Naskapi, W8banakiak (Abenaki) and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet).
Whereas the cultures of the First Peoples, Quebec and Anglo-Saxon consider each other as the founders of modern Quebec, on this territory.
Whereas the cultures of the First Peoples are threatened on Quebec, Canadian, North American and American territories.
Whereas the languages of the First Peoples are threatened with extinction.
Whereas Quebec culture is threatened on Canadian and North American territory.
Whereas the French language of Quebec color is the common language, but not exclusive, on the territory of Quebec.
Whereas the tradition of appointing, to prestigious positions in the Canadian public service, people who can speak both official languages of Canada is vital for the French-speaking communities of Canada in order to bring linguistic duality to life in the country.
Whereas the promotion of one culture does not have to be done at the expense of another.
It is proposed that the Quebec government undertake to create a permanent parliamentary committee dedicated to Aboriginal issues. This commission will be made up of a co-chair (a representative of the First Peoples and a Quebec representative), as well as 11 commissioners representing each of the 11 Aboriginal peoples of Quebec.
This commission will have to consider, among other things, the following objectives:
Promote, with the help of guaranteed long-term funding programs, all Aboriginal cultures in Quebec, including the enhancement of their languages, their history, their artistic creations, their way of life, their spirituality and their relationship with the environment.
Work with the Government of Quebec for the autonomy of the First Peoples.
Work with the Government of Quebec to promote the appointment of Indigenous candidates to prestigious positions in the Canadian and Quebec public service for which they have the necessary skills, while protecting the place of French in these institutions.
Promote the hiring of a critical mass of representatives of First Peoples in the Quebec Ministry of the Environment.
Work in partnership on an environmental protection policy.
During discussions on the implementation of a reform leading to a proportional voting system in Quebec, ensure that a sufficient number of seats will be reserved for representatives of the First Peoples.
Initiate discussions on a reparations program for the First Peoples by creating a fund, entirely managed by representatives of the First Peoples, made up of revenues from the exploitation of natural resources in Quebec.