Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Allow me to use my turn to put forward a motion that we previously sent to the clerk. It is related to an unfortunate incident that occurred this week, when Air Canada staff confiscated the headdress of the national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, Ms. Woodhouse Nepinak.
The motion reads as follows:
That the committee affirm that sacred indigenous items such as flags and headdresses must be handled with sensitivity and respect, such items hold significant cultural, spiritual, and honorific value.
The purpose of this motion is obviously to acknowledge what happened, even though Ms. Woodhouse Nepinak received an apology from Air Canada. The airline said it intended to review its policy, which is good.
However, consideration must be given to transporting headdresses, as they are some of the most honorific ceremonial items for first nations. The headdress is a recognition of leadership. The eagle feathers it is made of have been blessed to support chiefs in their travels and help them face challenges. The handling of these sacred items is particularly contentious.
I would remind you that, according to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority, it is crucial that airlines respect and accommodate cultural practices, including indigenous practices and passengers' beliefs.
This motion also concerns the relocation of artifacts from the Huron-Wendat nation from Quebec City to Gatineau. I think there needs to be more consultation with first nations and a greater show of respect.
The motion is drafted in such a way as to achieve consensus, so I encourage the members of the committee to adopt it now. That would be very positive. If not, we can discuss it at our meeting on Wednesday.
Thank you. Meegwetch.