The Canadian has probably committed “an error” by attributing recognition to the Mohawks on the territory of Montreal in a message broadcast for the first time last Saturday at the Bell Center, notes the Minister responsible for Native Affairs, Ian Lafrenière.
This decision by the Montreal hockey club sparked controversy over the real rights held by this Indigenous community.
In a brief press briefing in a corridor of the National Assembly, Mr. Lafrenière stressed that opinions differ on this subject.
“It’s important to recognize that the First Nations and the Inuit were here before us, it’s true, that we are currently living together,” he said before going to the Council of Ministers. We are embarking on a debate of historians who do not get along so it may have been a mistake. “
Mr. Lafrenière leaves it up to the hockey club to decide whether or not to modify this message, which must now precede each of the games played in Montreal.
“Specifically for Montreal, we don’t historically agree who was there first, that’s where it gets complicated,” he said.
In a press release released on Saturday, the Montreal hockey club announced its decision.
“Beginning with the home opener on October 16, the Montreal Canadiens will present a message of territorial recognition before each home game, in honor of the past, present and future contributions of Indigenous peoples,” the statement said.
This initiative was part of a larger strategy to recognize Indigenous communities and included reading this message before each game.
“The Montreal Canadiens wish to recognize the Kanien’keha: ka, also known as the Mohawk Nation, for their hospitality in the traditional and unceded territory where we are gathered today,” the statement said.
More details will follow.