The Iroquois Confederacy says the federal Conservative government is planning to end Canada’s obligations to Indigenous peoples and terminate their distinct status in the country.
Haudenosaunee Grand Council, which represents Haudenosaunee across North America is the “Iroquois” political structure that predates contact with Europeans.
The council released a statement New Year’s Eve accusing the Stephen Harper government of aiming to destroy “any semblance of nation-to-nation relationships.”
The confederacy said it will not recognize Bill C-45, the omnibus budget bill the included changes to the Indian Act .
“As the inherent custodians of Haudenosaunee sovereignty within all Haudenosaunee communities and territories, the Haudenosaunee Grand Council is responsible for being ever vigilant and protective against any challenge or threat to our collective sovereignty,” said the statement, dated Dec. 31, 2012. “It is clear that Bill C-45 and subsequent bills seek to destroy our collective sovereignty.”
The confederacy said the Harper government plans to “privatize and enfranchise Indigenous lands and waterways,” along with downloading its federal political responsibilities to the provinces.
“The Haudenosaunee remind the people of Canada of its desired relationship through the tenets of the Two Row Wampum, which champions coexistence and non-interference. Beginning with this basic relationship of mutual respect, our two peoples can resume our journey along the river of life as independent equals and resolve our problems along the way,” said the statement. “Here we shall stand.” | 
