Wendake, October 1, 2025 – The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) and its Council of Elected Women condemn the ignorant and revisionist remarks made by Maxime Bernier, leader of the People’s Party of Canada and former minister in the Government of Canada.
His statements, referring to the thousands of Indigenous children who were abused, neglected, or even died in residential schools, are a blatant distortion of well-established historical facts. This is not a legitimate political position, but divisive and hateful rhetoric that has no place in a society committed to justice, truth, and reconciliation.
“Since becoming leader, I have been committed to a unifying approach, focused on dialogue and finding solutions. But there are limits, and yesterday, Mr. Bernier clearly crossed them. I strongly condemn his revisionist and inflammatory remarks. I also call on all political parties to do the same,” said Francis Verreault-Paul, leader of the AFNQL.
Mr. Bernier’s comments are not only false, they are violent. They hurt the memory of the missing children, insult the Survivors, and reopen wounds that are still present in our communities. At the Council of Elected Women, we promote kindness and respect, because reconciliation can only be built on truth. Mr. Bernier must issue a clear and public apology to the Survivors, their families, and all First Nations,” added Nadia Robertson, co-spokesperson for the AFNQL Council of Elected Women.
Yesterday, September 30, was a day dedicated to survivors and to the memory of missing children. The AFNQL and the CFE did not want to divert attention from this moment of reflection, focused on the truth. But it is our responsibility today to respond to such comments, which constitute a serious offense to the dignity of survivors, families, and all First Nations peoples.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada has clearly established that Canada engaged in cultural genocide by destroying the structures, institutions, and practices that enabled Indigenous peoples to perpetuate themselves as Nations. These truths are well documented and indisputable.
The AFNQL and the CFE demand that Mr. Bernier publicly retract his statements and apologize to survivors, families, and all First Nations for his inappropriate remarks.
About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is the regional political organization representing the 43 chiefs of First Nations in Quebec and Labrador. For more information, visit its website at www.apnql.com.