The Huron-Wendat Nation and Canada embark on the journey toward reconciliation and sign a Framework Agreement to continue the nation–to–nation relationship

From: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

May 25, 2023

Today, the Huron-Wendat Nation and the Government of Canada have taken an important step toward reconciliation by signing a Framework Agreement on the recognition of Indigenous rights and self-determination.

This Framework Agreement signals the parties’ willingness to recognize the existence of a relationship based, inter alia, on the Huron-British Treaty of 1760.

The Framework Agreement establishes a discussion process on a variety of subjects to explore arrangements that will address the interests and priorities of the Huron-Wendat Nation. The agreement will help the parties work together to build a renewed relationship, in the best interest of the members of the Huron-Wendat Nation and all Canadians.

This Framework Agreement has been co-developed by the Huron-Wendat Nation and Canada, supported by the parties’ mutual commitment to the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. It sets out a collaborative process between the parties to advance the recognition and implementation of the Huron-Wendat Nation’s rights.

The Government of Canada is working with Indigenous partners across the country to explore flexible, rights-based arrangements that support renewed Crown–Indigenous relations and advance their visions of greater self-determination and a better future for their communities.

Quotes

“I welcome the signing of this Framework Agreement that provides us with a strong foundation, based on mutual respect and understanding, that will advance our self-determination and facilitate the implementation of our Aboriginal rights and those protected by the Huron-British Treaty of 1760. True to our values and traditions, the Huron-Wendat Nation is engaging this discussion process with the Government of Canada in a spirit of openness, collaboration and diplomacy.”

Rémy Vincent
Grand Chief, Huron-Wendat Nation

“This Framework Agreement will guide us in our shared work to implement the rights of the Huron-Wendat Nation. This is an important opportunity to build a stronger relationship and support the Nation in its work to realize self-determination and implement its inherent rights.”

The Honourable Marc Miller
Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations

Quick facts

• The Huron-Wendat Nation is located 8 kilometres north of Quebec City on the eastern shore of the St. Charles River. The Nation has about 4,500 members.
• Discussions on the recognition of Indigenous rights and self-determination between Canada and the Huron-Wendat Nation began in 2017.
• As the discussions progress, consultations will be held with members of the Huron-Wendat Nation and third parties once key steps in the process are reached.

Associated links

• Nation huronne-wendat (website not available in English)
• Protocol for consultation between Canada and the Huron-Wendat Nation

Contacts

For more information, media may contact:

Aïssatou Diop
Press Secretary and Communications Advisor
Office of the Honourable Marc Miller
Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations
aissatou.diop@rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca

Media Relations
Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
819-934-2302
RCAANC.media.CIRNAC@sac-isc.gc.ca

Jennifer O’Bomsawin
Councillor, Office of the Grand Chief
Huron-Wendat Nation Council
418-928-9792
jennifer.obomsawin@wendake.ca

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