Special Statement from Minister Andrew Carrier on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30, 2023

Winnipeg, Manitoba, in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis - Today, the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the National Government of the Red River Métis joins other Indigenous Nations across Canada, and all Canadians, to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Red River Métis citizens have been deeply affected by the Residential School system, as well as being impacted by the Sixties Scoop and other systems that stole our children's innocence and future. It is imperative that everyone learn about these systems and their ongoing effects, so that we never let these systems rob our children again.

Today, the MMF announces the launch of the ''Every Red River Métis Child Matters" sash, unanimously approved and supported by President Chartrand and Cabinet. The sash was designed by Red River Métis Sixties Scoop Survivor, Ms. Malanie Cutler and produced by the Kichua Indigenous Community living in Sesquilé, Colombia. To learn more about the sash, please visit www.mmf.mb.ca/every-child-matters.  

As Minister of Residential and Day Schools, I join the MMF President and Cabinet on this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in calling on each person to learn more about the Red River Métis experience at Residential and Day Schools. It is imperative that all acknowledge the tragic and painful colonial history for our citizens and our Nation, who have been deeply affected, and the vital role everyone plays in the reconciliation process.

The National Government of the Red River Métis will continue to work with its citizens to ensure healing for Survivors and our Nation, as well as ensuring we never let something like this happen again. Today, our flags will be flown at half-mast on our buildings to honour our Survivors and those who have suffered or lost lives to the Residential School system.

MMF offices will be closed on Monday October 2nd in lieu of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

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

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