The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community that the Ratitsénhaienhs gathered in person for the signing ceremony of a Collaboration Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the MCK and the Alsig8ntegwiak Council of Odanak, the governing body representing the Abenaki First Nation of Odanak and Wolinak. The first signing commenced on April 7th, with the final section being officially signed in Tiohtià:ke on May 27th during the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) Chiefs Assembly.
This historic agreement is the result of discussions that began in the Fall of 2025, which set a framework for both Nations to collaborate on areas including consultation processes, information sharing, and economic development projects and initiatives. The MOU was signed by Ohén:ton Í:rate ne Ratitsénhaienhs Cody Diabo, Abenaki Council of Odanak Chief Rick O’Bomsawin, and Councillor Stephan Landry of Wolinak.
“Our Nations have worked together for generations, and this MOU strengthens how we continue to stand together on matters that affect our lands, waters, and peoples,” said Ohén:ton Í:rate ne Ratitsénhaienhs Cody Diabo. “It also serves as a reminder at the federal and provincial levels that we must be consulted in any discussions or processes impacting our lands,” added Diabo.
“This protocol is, above all, a gesture of respect and recognition between our Nations, allowing us to move forward together where our territories and histories meet. It enables us to communicate more effectively, deepen our mutual understanding, and build shared positions in the interest of our respective Nations,” said Abenaki Council of Odanak Chief Rick O’Bomsawin.
“This agreement allows us to walk side by side, sharing information, and joining our strengths to address the issues affecting our respective territories. It also opens the door to concrete collaborations that will benefit the future of our Nations and the next generations,” added Abenaki Council of Wôlinak Councillor Stephan Landry.
The MCK looks forward to continued collaboration with the Abenaki Nations of Odanak and Wolinak and will keep the community informed as this partnership develops.
