Manitoba Métis Federation signs historic self-governing treaty with Canada
CTV
The Manitoba Métis Federation has signed a self-governing treaty with Ottawa, becoming the first Métis group to do so in the country’s history.
The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) has signed a self-governing treaty with Ottawa, becoming the first Métis group to do so in the country’s history.
In a monumental signing ceremony Saturday afternoon, the MMF was recognized as the official government of the Red River Métis.
“This is a turning point in Canada’s history,” said MMF president David Chartrand. “We are correcting an historic wrong done to the Red River Métis, and showing the true character of our country. Together, we are showing that Canada is a place where we can face challenges and come to terms with mistakes of the past, and move forward in a positive way, forging a new history for future generations.”
While the treaty doesn’t lay out specific rights around health care, harvesting or land, Chartrand said those aspects will likely be negotiated with the federal government down the road.
“This treaty was 154 years in the making, and is clearly a win-win for all Canadians, as we stand together on the right side of history,” Chartrand added.
Other federal representatives included Dan Vandal, member of parliament for St. Boniface – St. Vital, as well as Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree.
“Today is about self-determination,” said Anandsangaree. “It is long overdue for Canada to recognize the right of the Métis of the Red River to self-determination and to formalize our Nation-to-Nation, government-to-government relationship.
