An agreement has been signed at the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke, taking immediate effect. The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) and Six Nations Grand River (SNGR) commit to defending the rights of Indigenous peoples to govern gaming across Canada, utilizing collaborative legal and political strategies. This effort aims to protect the economic benefits that Indigenous communities would gain.
The agreement also initiates the formation of a national body for Indigenous gaming regulators.
In a joint statement regarding the new agreement, MCK and SNGR expressed disappointment over recent reinterpretations and amendments to the Criminal Code of Canada, which have enabled the government of Ontario to launch an online gaming initiative through its iGaming Ontario program. Both tribal bodies noted that this development is unlikely to economically benefit SNGR or MCK's online gaming operation, Mohawk Online. Ontario is set to debut its online gaming market on April 4, with three operators having received initial licenses.
"We are pleased to revitalize relations and strengthen our alliance with our brothers and sisters," said Ohén:ton Í:iente ne Ratitsénhaienhs Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer. "The renewal of this longstanding relationship founded on nationhood is the first step needed to strengthen our joint efforts in defending our interests and maintaining a stronghold in the gaming industry and other key areas we identify in the future."
The agreement further establishes a commitment to work with local gaming regulatory bodies to explore online gaming opportunities that could be advantageous for both communities.
“Today’s agreement signifies an important milestone as our communities come together to address our collective concerns,” said Chief Mark Hill of the Six Nations of the Grand River. “This type of partnership is the first step in demonstrating the possibilities of what we can achieve as Iroquois communities if we work together. We are much stronger not as individuals, but as a collective, and these relationships will strengthen us as we assert our rights and jurisdiction within the gaming industry and beyond.”
