MMF concludes Survivors Symposium for Red River Métis Sixties Scoop, Residential and Day School survivors

March 11, 2024

Winnipeg, MB, in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis - Yesterday, the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the National Government of the Red River Métis, concluded a full weekend of engagement, healing and discussion with Red River Métis survivors of the Sixties Scoop, as well as Residential and Day School survivors.

The symposium, themed "Our Nation, Our Families, Ourselves!" offered survivors an opportunity to connect on matters of importance to them, including sharing stories and seeking new ways to heal and gain resilience. Survivors proudly wore their every Red River Métis Child Matters Sash, which was designed by Red River Métis Sixties Scoop Survivor, Ms. Malanie Cutler. It is composed of seven uniquely coloured strands, each with its own significance.

"While it is heartbreaking to listen to the stories of our survivors, it is always necessary and important," said Denise Thomas, MMF Minister of Sixties Scoop. "It is important to record these experiences so that Canadians can begin to understand what was done to us. Healing, when supported by community, is powerful, and the need for that connection is ongoing."

Following a variety of workshops, seminars and panels, the survivors continued to express the need for supports to help their healing journey, as well as supports to help their children and grandchildren heal from the results of intergenerational trauma.

"It is clear that Canada still has work to do to reconcile with the effects of systemic and institutionalized racism in the school system, both past and present," said Andrew Carrier, MMF Minister for Residential and Day School survivors. "Making a child feel shame for who they are is a horrific act that leaves scars that never really go away. It is well past time that Canada come to the table to discuss how they can help undo the harm they created for our people. Until that is done, our healing will remain incomplete."

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For more information, media may contact:
Kat Patenaude
Media Relations Advisor
Manitoba Métis Federation
204-801-7710
Kat.Patenaude@mmf.mb.ca

Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis.

The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) is the democratically elected National Government of the Red River Métis, also known as the Manitoba Métis. The Red River Métis are a distinct Indigenous Nation and People and Canada's Negotiating Partners in Confederation and the Founders of the Province of Manitoba.

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