Métis National Heritage Centre

July 12, 2019

Winnipeg - Today, the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) and the Government of Canada unveiled new funding for the construction of a Métis National Heritage Centre in Winnipeg. The centre will be the first of its kind in Canada and will showcase the history of the Métis Nation, highlighting the rich heritage and contributions of the Métis People to the development of Canada.

"I am so pleased this heritage centre will be in the Birthplace of the Metis Nation and the Heart of the Metis Nation Homeland," said MMF President, David Chartrand. "This is our home. This is our land. As Partners in Confederation, and as neighbours and friends, I look forward to the day when I can welcome visitors from Manitoba, and indeed from around the world, to this centre of excellence, where they can truly understand the contributions of the Metis People to this province and to all of Canada."

Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada is funding $3.4 million towards the construction of the Centre.

"The Government of Canada is pleased to invest in the construction of a Métis National Heritage Centre, which will foster reconciliation between Canada and the Métis Nation," said Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, Carolyn Bennett. "We are proud to work with the Métis Nation to ensure their rightful place in Canadian history."

The Métis National Heritage Centre will provide Metis Citizens with an opportunity to tell their story. It will also provide Canadians with an opportunity to learn about the heritage, language, culture, methods of governance, and contributions of the Métis Nation before, during, and after Confederation.

"This initiative represents this federal government's continued commitment to work in partnership with the Métis People, to advance reconciliation and self-determination," added President Chartrand. "By teaching our history to other Canadians, we are able to re-affirm our place in Confederation and the rights that come with it."

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