Manitoba Métis Federation Refuses to Attend Meeting with Prime Minister Over Dispute
The Manitoba Métis Federation has decided not to attend a meeting with the Prime Minister, citing concerns over the inclusion of another Métis group that it claims lacks legitimacy. This decision comes amid ongoing tensions between different Métis organizations and the federal government over the recognition of Métis communities.
The federation, which represents the Red River Métis, stated that the Prime Minister’s invitation to the Métis Nation of Ontario undermines the integrity of the gathering and risks the government’s plans for major projects. The group expressed its willingness to meet with the Prime Minister in a government-to-government relationship but warned against any actions that could be seen as disrespectful.
David Chartrand, the president of the Manitoba Métis Federation, emphasized the need for mutual respect and trust between the governments. He urged the Prime Minister to reconsider the inclusion of groups he deems illegitimate, drawing parallels to his previous role as the governor of the Bank of Canada.
Concerns About Recognition and Legitimacy
Other Métis groups and First Nations have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the Métis Nation of Ontario. They argue that these communities do not have a valid claim to Métis heritage and that Ottawa and Ontario have no right to recognize them. In response, the Métis Nation of Ontario has defended itself, stating that Métis people are not confined to the Red River region.
First Nations in Ontario have sought academic reviews of six new communities recognized by the Métis Nation of Ontario and the province in 2017. They believe these communities are not legitimate and infringe upon their territories. This has led to further disputes over the recognition of Métis groups and their rights.
Chartrand also criticized the inclusion of the Métis National Council in the meeting, pointing out that it now has only two provincial members due to conflicts related to the Métis Nation of Ontario. He argued that the Prime Minister’s political advisers lack sufficient knowledge of Métis politics and suggested that the Prime Minister would not have met with “fake banks” in his previous role as Bank of Canada governor.
Differing Perspectives on Participation
Mitch Case, co-secretary for rights, intergovernmental relations, and communications with the Métis Nation of Ontario, responded to Chartrand’s comments, stating that while the Manitoba Métis Federation is free to make decisions about its participation, it has no right to dictate who sits around the table. He emphasized the importance of working with Canada to address current economic and geopolitical challenges.
Case highlighted the historical relationship between the Manitoba Métis Federation and the Métis Nation of Ontario, referencing a Supreme Court of Canada case from 2003 that recognized a Métis community in and around Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. He noted that support for the provincial group came from Métis across the country, including Chartrand.
Margaret Froh, president of the Métis Nation of Ontario, stated that the group has been fighting for Métis rights long before there was any official recognition of those rights. She emphasized the ongoing efforts to secure recognition and support for Métis communities.
Reactions and Implications
Chartrand expressed concern that his citizens would be outraged if his organization validated the Métis Nation of Ontario by sitting alongside it in a meeting with the Prime Minister. He pointed to studies commissioned by First Nations that suggest the Métis Nation of Ontario bases its genealogical history on the backs of First Nations ancestors, not Métis.
He urged the Métis Nation of Ontario to develop its own history and culture rather than appropriating existing ones. Chartrand also highlighted the importance of protecting Métis heritage, pointing to his buckskin vest adorned with Red River Métis floral beadwork.
While the Manitoba Métis Federation has generally supported the legislation, Chartrand warned that the government’s push to approve major projects is at risk if it negotiates with “illegitimate bodies.”
Inclusion and Exclusion in the Meeting
The Manitoba Métis Federation confirmed that it had no issue with the participation of the Métis Nation of Alberta and the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan in the meeting. However, the Métis Nation British Columbia declined to attend, as it was invited only as an online observer. The group expressed disappointment at being excluded from the discussion.
Métis settlements in Alberta and the Northwest Territories were not invited to participate in the meeting. The Prime Minister’s Office stated that Métis leaders were provided with details about the meeting, emphasizing the government’s commitment to working with all Indigenous and Métis partners.
Despite these statements, the office did not respond to questions about why certain groups were excluded from the meeting.