MCA STANDS AGAINST BILL 97

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne opposes Québec’s proposed Bill 97 – Modernization of the Forest Regime. 

This legislation raises serious concerns for Akwesasne. It was developed without meaningful consultation with First Nations and places industrial development above environmental protection, which threatens forests, waters, and the lands. Bill 97, as proposed, fails to respect First Nations rights and responsibilities to the land and could undermine our inherent right to practice hunting, fishing, and medicine gathering. These are rights Onkwe'honwe have exercised since time immemorial. 

Decisions about public lands cannot be made without First Nations consultation. The current Bill risks excluding our voices, weakening environmental protections, and prioritizing industrial development over ecological balance. Any modernization of forest management must include meaningful consultation and co-management with First Nations, stronger environmental safeguards that go beyond zoning labels, and recognition of First Nations stewardship as essential to sustainable forest management.

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne stands with the Assembly of First Nations Quebec–Labrador (AFNQL) and other First Nations calling for the withdrawal of Bill 97. Protecting the land is not just a policy choice, it is a responsibility passed down from our ancestors to ensure the wellbeing of those yet to come. 

For more information on Bill 97, please contact the Akwesasne Rights & Research Office at 613-575-2250.