The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) and the Six Nations of the Grand River (SNGR) – both located in the Great Lakes region of Canada – have entered into an agreement of mutual cooperation on gaming.
This show of unity is in response to recent changes to Canada’s criminal code that the indigenous communities feel effectively shut the First Nations out of the conversation about the gaming industry.
Per the terms of the agreement, both tribes have agreed to defend, by any means necessary, mutual indigenous control over gaming. Underscored in a statement released by both tribes, was the protection of the socio-economic benefits derived by the communities.
As well, focus has been placed on cooperation between both communities’ regulatory bodies and on investigating the mutually beneficial opportunities that could come from more study of the iGaming industry.
Finally, both tribes intend on collaborating on legal, political and public relations with an end to further protecting their communities, an offer that has been extended to other indigenous communities in the region.
Underscored in the joint statement was the almost certainly deleterious effects for the MCK and SNGR which will arise from the government of Ontario establishing full authority over the regulation of iGaming in the province. This move, the statement emphasizes, will effectively close off access to the largest local markets for these two communities their gaming industries.
Speaking in the agreement, Grand Chief of the MCK Ohén:ton Í:iente ne Ratitsénhaienhs Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer had the following to comment: “We are pleased to revitalize relations and strengthen our alliance with our brothers and sisters. Renewal of this longstanding relationship found 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.”
From the SNGR came the comments of Chief Mark Hill: “Today’s agreement signifies an important milestone as our communities come together to address our collective concerns. This type of partnership is the first step in demonstrating the possibilities of what we can achieve as Iroquois communities if we work together.”
