MMF donates $100,000 in humanitarian aid to Ukraine

February 28, 2022

Winnipeg, MB, in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis - Today at an emergency Cabinet Meeting, the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), as the National Government of the Red River Métis, also known as the Manitoba Métis, passed a unanimous vote to make a $100,000 donation to Ukraine, for humanitarian aid in the face of Putin's aggression.

"Like many across the globe, our Citizens, along with the MMF Cabinet and staff, have been watching the events in Ukraine with dismay and sadness," said David Chartrand, President of the MMF. "People of Ukrainian heritage have been neighbours and friends of the Red River Métis for more than a hundred years. Over those years, many have intermarried with Citizens of our Nation, which means they are not just our friends and neighbours - in many cases, they are our family. We must stand in solidarity with them and do what we can to provide aid."

In addition, the MMF will be accessing Ukraine's flag to fly on our buildings, as a sign of solidarity and a message of hope to our Ukrainian relatives. Our digital billboards will also display a message of solidarity for Ukraine.

"It should touch everyone's hearts that we see men and women of all ages taking up arms to defend their home, their culture, their identity and their sovereignty," said President Chartrand. "We must do what we can to support the millions who have been and will continue to be displaced by Russian aggression. I thank Canada for encouraging us all to make donations through this matching program, dollar for dollar. To all Red River Métis, their Ukrainian relatives and the people of Ukraine, know that our hearts are with you as Ukraine comes together to defend itself."

The donation, drawn from revenues of the MMF's business arms, is being directed through the Canadian Red Cross. While Canadians have already reached the $10 million dollar goal that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the federal government agreed to match, it is important that everyone who can support Ukraine, does so. The funds will support preparedness, immediate and ongoing relief efforts, long-term recovery, resiliency, and other critical humanitarian activities as needs arise, both in Ukraine and surrounding countries, including support for displaced populations.

"This war that has been brought upon Ukraine comes with risks to us all," said President Chartrand. "We have all heard the statements of Russia's Putin that he will be prepared to threaten global peace through nuclear arms. We all know the risks that come with that, and the potential impact on our world. Both the generations of today and tomorrow are at risk. The Red River Métis must do our part to defend democracy and protect fundamental rights, as we did in past global conflicts, like World War I and World War II. The MMF encourages all Canadians to do what they can to help Ukraine and its war refugees in this time of need. Those wishing to make a donation along with the MMF can go to redcross.ca.

"We hope this donation sends a message to our friends and relatives in Ukraine," said President Chartrand. "The Red River Métis remain your friends and allies, and we will do everything we can to support your fight for democracy."

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Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis. 

The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) is the democratic government for the Manitoba Métis, also known as the Red River Métis, the origin and core of the Métis Nation. The Manitoba Métis are Canada's Negotiating Partners in Confederation and the Founders of the Province of Manitoba.

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

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