Metis Nation Supports Federal Government Efforts – Chiefs of Ontario Call for “Hard Reset”
Winnipeg, MB – There is a break between the Chiefs of Ontario, and the Manitoba Metis Federation over the efforts by the federal government’s efforts to implement the Indigenous Rights Framework. Ontario Regional Chief Archibald says that a “hard reset” is needed to make the process fair.
“The federal government continues to advance a deeply flawed engagement process concerning the Rights and Recognition Framework after significant resistance from not only Indigenous legal and cultural experts, but First Nations from across Canada.
“On other issues, we have made a positive forward movement with the federal government. That’s why its troubling that while they are listening, they aren’t hearing the First Nation voices and the messages being conveyed. First Nations across Ontario are opposed – and do not believe this framework was made in collaborative partnership.
“The Chiefs of Ontario stand by our RESOLUTION 32-18 REJECTION OF FEDERAL RECOGNITION OF RIGHTS AND IMPLEMENTATION FRAMEWORK, passed by the Chiefs in assembly at the June 2018 All Ontario Chiefs Conference. We continue to encourage like-minded First Nations to assert their sovereignty through their own nation-to-nation governance structures and processes.”
This stand is in complete opposition to the Manitoba Metis Federation. In a statement released this morning, the MMF state they are in complete support of the federal government and the direction taken by Minister Bennett.
The Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) completely supports the direction being undertaken by Minister Carolyn Bennett, on behalf of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government, for a Recognition and Implementation of Indigenous Rights Framework that would ensure Métis Nation rights are recognized and provide accountability measures to guarantee implementation.
“This federal government has taken unprecedented actions and positive steps toward reconciliation, well beyond those of any other government in memory,” said MMF President David Chartrand. “This Framework will help to put in place laws and policies that will guide, and hold accountable, future federal governments and ensure our inherent self-government rights are recognized and respected.”
Canada just released what is described as “an engagement document” intended to “elicit discussion” on the proposed Recognition and Implementation of Indigenous Rights Framework, President Chartrand explained. “It is important that discussion be encouraged. Métis Nation Citizens have been builders of this country for nearly 150 years. As builders, we welcome practical solutions. We believe the Framework will bring results for the future of our Métis Community and legislation for the recognition of our Métis Governments.”
“This is an enabling framework which, once in place, will require Canada’s participation; and in which Indigenous Peoples can participate if, and when, they so choose,” added President Chartrand. “Rest assured that the MMF will participate, without hesitation, and will continue to renew our partnership with Canada over the coming years.”
“This government has already made changes that will improve the lives of our Métis Nation citizens in Manitoba and beyond,” President Chartrand went on to say. “Now that the consultations are complete, we look forward to rolling up our sleeves and working with Canada on a Framework that promises to bring future success for our Métis Nation, other Indigenous Peoples, and, indeed, all Canadians.”
