Quebec should not separate

(Makivik) Clearly, the natives are against Quebec sovereignty. A unilateral declaration of independence by Quebec would violate the Crees’ principles of human rights, democracy and consent. In 1996, Zebedee Nungak, leader of the Inuit of Nunavik (northern Quebec) delivered a speech representing the Innuits’ view regarding Quebec sovereignty. ation comprising of Cree, Inuit and Innu. (Wherrett) The Cree maintain that the Parti Quebecois and the Quebec National Assembly do not have the right to unilaterally proclaim that the Quebec people will exercise their vote on their collective future (Wherrett); they argue that the PQ cannot force them or their native neighbors to be part of the “Quebec people” for purposes of self-determination of secession. 3% NO to the question, “Do you consent, as a people, that the Government of Quebec separate the James Bay Crees and Cree traditional territory from Canada in the event of a Yes vote in the Quebec referendum?" Clearly, the Cree do not wish for Quebec sovereignty. If Quebec leaves, then no one can ascertain the Inuits’ position on Quebec. In spite of this, if Quebec votes to secede, they would seek protection through Canadian courts. A referendum was held in 1995 to voice the Crees’ opposition to Quebec sovereignty. The Cree believe they have a right to stay in Canada. They maintain that their territory will not be taken over or given to an independent Quebec without their consent; if Quebec leaves, the Cree wish to remain part of Canada. This action would show that Quebec uses unfair and undemocratic methods to carry out its wishes. The forcible inclusion of the Cree in an independent Quebec would go against international, Canadian, Aboriginal law and practice. The Innuit have declared that they will use their legal rights to remain in Canada in the event of a Quebec separation.