Manitoba Metis Federation

Another obstacle was place in the path of our 135-year Metis struggle for justice and recognition. On December 7th, after a 25-year court battle, Justice MacInnis' released his decision in Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) v. A.G. of Canada and A.G. of Manitoba.

We will appeal the decision, said MMF President David Chartrand. History shows that very rarely does a lower court side with Aboriginal Peoples on a matter of importance. The Metis People will have to rely on a higher court. We would not be surprised if this went all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada.

The current action was argued from early April to late July 2006. It has its origins in the turbulent period of 1869-1870 which led to solemn promises to the Metis and the creation of the province of Manitoba. In 1870 the Metis became the Founders of Manitoba and Partners in Confederation.

Obligations to the Metis under sections 31 and 32 of the Manitoba Act included protection of the river lots and assurances that 1.4 million acres of land were to be reserved for the Metis children. These promises were never met resulting in grave injustices to the Metis children and their families.

The MMF has been in court on this issue for a quarter century, explained President Chartrand. Challenging Justice McInnis judgment is another one of the steps we must take on our way to getting justice for the Metis People.

CTV - Court dismisses Metis land claim worth billions

National post - Manitoba judge throws out Metis land claim

Winnipeg Free Press - Judge rejects Metis land claim