Policing issues are complicated in the Mohawk community of Kanesatake, near Montréal, Québec - a firebombing last Sunday underscores tensions that have existed between the Mohawks and the Sûreté du Québec, Québec's police force. Police have been reluctant to patrol the region ever since then Grand Chief James Gabriel negotiated a controversial police deal with Ottawa in 2003 without consulting band council, resulting in a Mohawk blockade and Gabriel's exile to Montreal the following year. The Montreal Gazette says the Mohawk community wants the Sûreté du Québec to step up patrols. Some Mohawks believe Québec wants to overextend its reach. The Kanesatake have a strong independent streak and have come to blows with Québec before.
posted by Marisa Stole the Precious Thing on Sep 6, 2008 - 8 comments