First Nations Education Council Testifies before Quebec’s National Assembly Concerning the New Museum of Quebec History
Press Release
Wendake, September 24, 2024—The First Nations Education Council (FNEC) appeared this morning before the National Assembly’s Committee on Culture and Education, as part of the specific consultations and public hearings on Bill 64 concerning the creation of the future Musée national de l’histoire du Québec (a museum devoted to the history of Quebec), following the submission of a joint brief with the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL), and Institut Tshakapesh.
During the testimony, FNEC representatives reiterated the importance of creating new spaces for socialization and learning, such as museum institutions. Despite certain differences of opinion surrounding the new institution, the FNEC stated that it was imperative that the place of First Nations be recognized in the prospective museum, especially as First Nations are intrinsically linked to Quebec’s history and territory, as well as to its development.
“After the discussions we had today, we’re confident that the government will see that First Nations get their rightful place in the museum. Afterall, the future museum is meant to be positive vehicle to fight prejudice and ignorance with education, mutual respect, and recognition. The institution’s success is inseparable from the participation of First Nations” said Denis Gros-Louis, director general of the FNEC.
“First Nations must not, once again, be forgotten and forced to take a back seat. Quebec’s history began well before the arrival of the Europeans into the region. This museum is an opportunity for reconciliation and the integration of personal stories, contributions and the First Nations perspective. Regular consultations with First Nations members and experts could guarantee fair and respectful representation while averting stereotypes and historical errors. It is the least we can do to ensure that future generations have a fair representation of our shared history as Nations in the territory that we share.” added Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.
“I think we can all agree that when you share a territory, you share its history. We are convinced that together—mamu—we will be able to harmonize our voices to highlight our common and distinct ‘portages,’ for the benefit of future generations, with full respect for our Elders, visionaries and builders. This is a project for the future, a strategic movement to bring non-First Nations and all First Nations closer together,” remarked Marjolaine Tshernish, director general of Institut Tshakapesh.
About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is the regional political organization that brings together the 43 First Nations Chiefs of Quebec and Labrador. For more information, visit their website at www.afnql.com
About the FNEC
The FNEC is an association of 22 First Nations of Quebec that has been working for more than 35 years towards the realization of the right of First Nations to exercise their full jurisdiction in education through the implementation of a comprehensive education system, endowed with adequate resources, designed and managed according to their values and culture. For more information, please visit www.cepn-fnec.com
About Institut Tshakapesh
Since 1978, Institute Tshakapesh has pursued its mission to serve member communities and the Innu Nation, safeguarding and promoting Innu-aitun (Innu culture) and Innu-aimun (Innu language), supporting cultural heritage conservation, language planning, and encouraging artistic expression. Institut Tshakapesh plays a decisive role in education, particularly in the educational success and identity development of Innu youth. www.tshakapesh.ca
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Source and Information:
Mona Belleau
Director of Communications and Government Relations
First Nations Education Council
842-7672, ext. 3016 mbelleau@cepn-fnec.com
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