Manitoba Metis Federation

David Chartrand
President Manitoba Metis Federation Inc.

David Chartrand was born and raised in the small Metis community of Duck Bay, Manitoba; the son of Martha Chartrand. David is the fourth child in a family of eight and was raised by his single mother who instilled a strong sense of the traditional values of family and community which has played a vital role in his belief that people are the cornerstone of the Manitoba Metis Federation and family is the bedrock of the Metis Nation. He is the proud father of Sonya and Christopher and grandfather of Trayden and Isaiah. David's first language is Saulteaux.

David Chartrand has been an exemplary Metis citizen committed to public service and the development of the Metis Nation. He has humbly served the Manitoba Metis and indeed the Metis People throughout the Metis Nation Homeland for over twenty years. Following a career start in both private and public sector management, David worked extensively in the field of Justice for over 10 years. In 1988 David was elected to the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) Board of Directors representing the Winnipeg Region, and was re-elected four successive times. He was appointed Acting President in 1996 and, in 1997; he was elected as President of the Manitoba Metis Federation. The Metis People's confidence in his leadership has resulted in his re-election as President to an unprecedented fourth consecutive term. David is the longest serving President of the MMF consecutively.

While holding the office of President David has brought a new level of recognition of the Manitoba Metis on a Provincial and Federal level. Starting in 1996 with seven staff to now over 300 staff, David and his team established various programs and services for the advancement of the Metis people.

His leadership and sacrifice has led to the resurgence of the Nation. He has enhanced the Federation's credibility, stability and strength under his administration. Membership and participation of the people in the Federation has steadily increased over the past three terms, with approximately 2000 Metis participants now attending the Federation's Annual General Assembly.

David Chartrand has championed the Metis cause to the highest levels of the land. He has been a protector and defender of the rights of the Metis and one of the strongest diplomats the Metis Nation has been privileged to call President. Under his leadership, the Metis Nation in Manitoba has seen tremendous growth in capacity, programs and services, self-government capabilities and has achieved unprecedented movement towards the recognition of Metis Land Claims and harvesting rights.

It is his respect for the Metis People and his commitment to family and community that provides the foundation for his service and community development work. As a leader and role model, his accomplishments have benefited not only the Metis Nation of Canada, but also all of Canada's Aboriginal peoples.

David has received numerous awards and recognition, but believes nothing is more rewarding than the advancement of his people and the respect they bestow upon him.