The AFNQL Supports the Sovereignty of the Sioux Nation and Joins the Thousands Opposing the North Dakota Pipeline

WENDAKE, QC, Sept. 8, 2016 /CNW/ - The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) would like to express its support to the Standing Rock Sioux people and tribal leaders in their fight against the Dakota Access pipeline, a project to transport crude oil from the Bakken oilfield near the Canadian border to Illinois.

"We are joining thousands of our brothers and sisters, friends and allies who are concerned not only by the potential impacts of the pipeline but also by the disrespect of the North Dakota authorities for the sovereignty of the Sioux Nation on their traditional territory. We encourage them to pursue their advocacy and peaceful protest efforts. There is no border between our Nations when it comes to fight together for the respect of our Aboriginal and Treaty Rights", declared Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.

The expression of sovereignty on our territories is and has always been a priority for our peoples. "Today, the Atikamekw Nation is taking actions to highlight the second anniversary of their declaration of sovereignty. The Atikamekw, along with the Sioux Nation and many others across the continent must continue to showcase to the entire international community the shameful and abusive actions of sellout governments and companies against our rights and survival", concluded Ghislain Picard.

About the AFNQL

The Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador is the political organization regrouping 43 Chiefs of the First Nations in Quebec and Labrador. www.apnql-afnql.com.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador

Mélanie Vincent : [email protected], Cell. : 418 580-4442