First Nations leader Ghislain Picard won't seek another mandate as regional chief

Ghislain Picard, who led the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) for over 30 years, has decided not to seek another term as leader.

Picard shared his decision in a letter, dated December 19, addressed to the 43 chiefs that make up the organization.

"This is where the curtain comes down after nearly 35 years of a rewarding political life," he wrote, as seen in a letter obtained by Espaces autochtones.

He expressed that it was one of the hardest letters he had written, and his decision came after much reflection, filled with mixed emotions.

"There are no words to express how grateful I am to have benefited from your support and that of the leaders who preceded you," he added.

Picard was first elected as head of the AFNQL in 1992, a year after the organization was established in 1985. The AFNQL's leader serves as a regional chief on the executive council of the Assembly of First Nations.

In his letter, Picard reflected on his time as leader, stating that he has always worked with humility and respect to serve Indigenous communities.

"I firmly believe that the AFNQL has succeeded in making our issues more visible, in an environment that too often overlooks our priorities," he wrote.

Picard declined an interview request from Espaces autochtones.

As regional chief, he led efforts against racism and discrimination, notably by introducing an action plan following the Viens Commission, which investigated relations between Indigenous peoples and public services in Quebec. He also advocated for the recognition of systemic racism in the healthcare system, particularly after the death of Joyce Echaquan.

The nomination period for the next leader of the AFNQL will close on February 10, with the 43 chiefs scheduled to vote for a new leader on February 25.