In the few days leading up to the federal election, the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec-Labrador called for a change

In the few days leading up  to the federal election, the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec-Labrador called for a change in the name of the department responsible for Aboriginal people. It wants Aboriginal Affairs to be called the Department of Relations with First Nations. What’s in a name? Well the AFNQL says the newly-elected government needs to “restore the bond of trust with the leaders of First Nations.” Beyond the promises, a press release reads, there is a requirement for a clear commitment “to rebuild relationships, while respecting the unique history of Aboriginal peoples as first inhabitants of this vast land.” AFNQL Chief Ghislain Picard says the “fundamental character of our alliance with the Canadian state must be respected” and the next government must “clearly indicate its intention to end this paternalism once and for all, and to commit to foster a respectful, collaborative relationship with our governments, in a spirit of reconciliation.” He calls on the federal government to revisits the role and responsibility of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs by changing its name. He said by doing this it would contribute to rebuilding trust, “which obviously has been missing for a long time now.”