The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community that the MCK acknowledges the Government of Canada for its proposed legislation that would establish measures to support preservation and promotion on Indigenous languages.

Bill C-91, An Act Respecting Indigenous Languages, attempts to address past injustices and sets forth a course of action that, should it be fully implemented, would firmly place Indigenous languages where they have always belonged. Yesterday’s announcement by Canada should be viewed as a great starting point towards true reconciliation and respect. Our languages are an integral part of what makes us the distinct people that we are.

We are hopeful that Canada’s recognition and support for Indigenous languages will help many of the revitalization efforts our people have been undertaking for years.

The true challenge will be the government’s long-term commitment to the process. It will not be simple, and it won’t be inexpensive. Canada is saying it will put forth the financial resources necessary to accomplish the goals set forth in the legislation. We will be watching closely to ensure that it does and will hold Canada accountable should it fail to follow through on both its financial and legislative commitments.