MCK pleased with turnout for march and rally against First Nations Education Act

01/28/2014

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community that it is extremely pleased with the turnout at a march and rally this morning against Canada’s proposed First Nations Education Act (FNEA).

Various estimates put the crowd between 450 to 550 people, the majority who participated in both the march and the rally that followed.  It was organized by the Kahnawà:ke Education Working Group, with input by other individuals, community groups, organizations and numerous volunteers.

“We can accomplish so much when we unite like we did today,” said Education Portfolio Chief Rhonda Kirby. “There were hundreds of people from all walks of life who participated in the freezing cold who showed their support for the Kahnawà:ke position against the FNEA. It was very inspiring.”

“I’m proud to say that Kahnawà:ke was amongst the first to state clearly that we reject the FNEA,” said Chief Lloyd Phillips, who was among the speakers at the rally held after the march. “We have carried the message across Canada that we will not accept this Act, nor will we tolerate the arrogance of the Conservative government.”

“Canada, take notice,” concluded Chief Phillips. “We will not allow you to undermine our children’s education, we will not allow you to undermine our rights and we will remain united to defend the integrity of our community.”

Chief Phillips’ speech can be viewed in its entirety at www.kahnawake.com.