MMF kicks off treaty consultations with Citizens, receives overwhelming support

March 6, 2023

Winnipeg, MB, in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis - The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the National Government of the Red River Métis, kicked off consultations with Citizens this weekend, to hear questions and feedback about the proposed Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Modern-Day Treaty between Canada and the Red River Métis.

"It has been too long since Canada treated with our Nation, and that first treaty was not honoured by the government of the day," said David Chartrand, President of the MMF. "It is time for the Red River Métis to have a new treaty - one that ensures our rights are enshrined in the constitution, forever protecting our place in Canada's confederation."

Consultation with Citizens is a critical part of the rich democratic tradition of the Red River Métis, dating back to the open-air assemblies that took place in advance of the creation of the Métis Bill of Rights, which eventually became the Manitoba Act. The meeting in Dauphin is the beginning of an extensive consultation process, which ensures that every Citizen has an opportunity to learn about the details and ask questions. Further consultations will take place both inside Manitoba and with Citizens who reside outside of Manitoba.

"I was proud to see the turnout of our Citizens in the Northwest Region, who are very engaged in our democratic process and understand the historic nature of the consultation for this treaty," said Frances Chartrand, Vice-President of the Northwest Region. "I know that the Local executives who attended the treaty meeting will be sharing the information with thousands of Citizens across the Northwest, gathering their feedback and ensuring that all of our people have a chance to discuss this important document."

More details of the treaty will be shared as the consultation process continues and Citizens are provided with the full scope of the treaty and its implications. Thus far, the treaty has been greeted with overwhelming support and enthusiasm.

"The most important part of this treaty is the fact that it's not a treaty between Canada and the MMF," said David Chartrand. "It's a treaty between Canada and the Red River Métis, which was the goal of our Ancestors. The role of the MMF in this treaty, as in all things, is to be the servant of the people. Our government exists exclusively to deliver on the will and guidance of our Citizens, represented by our Locals. I am honoured to represent our Nation throughout this historic time."

To watch a recap of this historic Citizen consultation, go to the MMF Youtube Channel here: https://youtu.be/EIhCc8OorAc

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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 origin and core of the Historic Métis Nation. The Red River 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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