Releases

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005
2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000

2005


December


National Research Team gathers in Edmonton to continue the work of mapping our Past
The NRT met for four days recently in Edmonton to discuss and assess the previous year’s activities and also to coordinate research among the project leaders in terms of Databasing and Archival Research, Databases as a source of Geographic Information Systems approaches to the historical geography of the Métis. Extensive discussions were conducted in terms of common standards of data entry, data compatibility, legacy documentation and database priorities. The NRT broke up into two workshop groups to examine more closely both Community-based research and historical/archival/genealogical research. The NRT team will meet for a second time this fiscal year in Winnipeg in February. (Dec 16)


‘Hunt for Justice’ Continues for Métis in British Columbia as Supreme Court of British Columbia set to hear appeal in R. v. Willison this week
The Métis Nation’s ongoing ‘hunt for justice’ is set to take centre stage again this week in British Columbia. Beginning Tuesday December 13th at 10:00 a.m. the Supreme Court of British Columbia will begin hearing arguments in the appeal of R. v. Willison in Vernon, BC. This appeal will be the first time an appeal court, anywhere in Canada, will apply the principles set out by the Supreme Court of Canada in its 2003 landmark Métis rights decision - R. v. Powley The Willison case began on November 26, 2000. Gregory Willison, a citizen of the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC), who lives in the Okanagan/Thompson area, shot a mule deer near Falkland, BC. He was charged with hunting without a license. Mr. Willison pleaded not guilty basing his defense on his Métis right to hunt for food protected by s. 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. After 8 days of trial, the Honourable Judge Stansfield, of the British Columbia Provincial Court, held, “I am satisfied Mr. Willison has discharged his burden of proof of an aboriginal right under s. 35 of the Charter such that the right has been proven.” (Dec 12)


National Métis Youth Role Model Awards
Since 2001, the Métis National Youth Role Model Awards have encouraged hundreds of nominations for the prestigious Métis National Youth Role Model Award. This has lead to the recognition of 24 very special Métis youth who have overcome many challenges to reach their goals, and benefited their community. The Awards Selection Committee believes that Role Models achieve their personal goals while benefiting others. They look for Métis youth that help the disadvantaged and non-profit organizations. They look for leaders that demonstrate healthy living. They believe that a Role Model is innovative, selfless, and is a life long learner. And they enjoy seeing Métis youth that have promoted their heritage. (Dec 8)


Gabriel Dumont Institute “A 25 year success story for the Métis Nation”
The Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI) of Native Studies and Applied Research has reached a milestone. During GDI’s 25 year history, thousands of Métis have graduated from the Institute’s various programs with nearly 800 receiving a Bachelor of Education Degree. Many graduates of the Institute have gone on to become leaders in their communities. Since 1980, GDI has grown into a real success story as it strives to serve the educational and cultural needs of Saskatchewan’s Métis and non-Aboriginal communities. GDI offers a variety of accredited educational, vocational and skills training opportunities for the provinces Métis in partnership with the University of Regina, the University of Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology, the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies and various other regional colleges and the Métis Employment and Training of Saskatchewan Inc. (Dec 6)


Métis Nation of Alberta Mourns the Passing of Sam Sinclair
On behalf of the Métis Nation of Alberta, President Audrey Poitras extends the Nation’s deepest condolences to the family of Sam Sinclair, former President, who passed away recently in Edmonton, Alberta. “The Métis Nation of Alberta is saddened to learn of the death of Sam Sinclair, a proud and passionate leader who helped to shape the Métis Nation as we know it. Sam’s perseverance and dedication to his wife and family and to securing the rights of the Métis people have earned him respect and admiration from Métis citizens across the homeland,” says President Poitras. (Dec 2)


Métis National Council and Law Commission of Canada announce National Symposium on Crown-Métis Relations
Today, Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council (MNC) and Yves Le Bouthillier, President of the Law Commission of Canada (LCC) announced that the MNC and LCC will co-host a national symposium on Crown-Métis Relations in Winnipeg, Manitoba from February 5th to 7th, 2006. The symposium will explore with academics, lawyers, government officials and Métis leadership the issues that require action and clarification in order to improve Crown-Métis relations. These sessions and discussions will focus on jurisdictional questions, the implications of the Supreme Court of Canada’s decisions on Métis rights, Métis identity, Métis self-government and the state of current Crown-Métis relations. (Dec 1)



November


Métis Nation Leadership asks Federal Parties Where They Stand on Métis Issues
Today, on behalf of the Métis Nation, Métis National Council President, Clément Chartier, wrote to the leadership of all the federal parties requesting their party’s policy positions on Métis issues. “The Métis National Council is in the process of undertaking an analysis of the federal parties’ policy platforms vis-à-vis Métis with a view to fully informing our citizens in the upcoming election. Our analysis will be posted on the Métis National Council’s website and widely circulated to Métis people and communities from Ontario westward,” wrote President Chartier. Further, in the letters, President Chartier posed a series of specific questions with respect to Métis rights, self-government and improving the quality of life of Métis Nation citizens. The Métis National Council has asked for responses to these inquiries by December 15th, 2005. (Nov 30)


First Ministers Meeting a Turning Point for Métis Nation
Following years of waiting, and hundreds of hours of intense negotiations, the Métis Nation is at a turning point in its history as the First Ministers Meeting (FMM) in Kelowna unfolds. The leadership of the Métis National Council are anticipating solid outcomes from the FMM - outcomes which could have a direct impact for our 350,000 to 400,000 people in communities across the Métis Homeland from Ontario-west. The opening day of the FMM in Kelowna, British Columbia will focus on Education, Housing and Economic Opportunities while Health and Relationships will dominate Friday’s agenda. It has been over a decade since our Métis leadership has had a meeting of this importance at the highest political levels. The FMM is an opportunity for Métis, Inuit, and First Nation leadership, along with the federal and provincial governments, to jointly commit to a 10-year sustained effort to strengthen relationships and improve the quality of life for Aboriginal Peoples in this country. (Nov 24-25)


Métis Nation signs Human Resources Development Accord
The Métis Nation Accord on Human Resources Development was signed in Ottawa this afternoon by Belinda Stronach, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. Joining her was Métis National Council President Clément Chartier, and David Chartrand, the Métis Nation’s Minister responsible for Social Development. The Accord follows on from and enables the continuation of nearly ten years of successful devolution to the Métis Nation of the administration and management of human resources and skills development labour market programs and services designed for Métis people. It provides a framework for the negotiation and implementation of Métis-specific employment training under the Government of Canada’s Aboriginal Human Resources Development Strategy (“AHRDS”), renewed this year. The AHRDS is a strategy with a purpose to enhance employment prospects and opportunities for unemployed Aboriginal people, including youth and persons with disabilities. (Nov 15)


Métis Nation flag is flying strong and proud
For the first time, the Métis Nation flag is flying strong and proud on the Delta Hotel in downtown Ottawa. The Infinity flag is flying high to mark Métis Week and to commemorate the anniversary of Louis Riel's death. Ceremonies are planned across the Métis Nation on November 16th to celebrate Riel and his vision of a rightsbearing people. (Nov 14)


Métis Nation Doesn't Want To Be Collateral Damage To The Political Storm In Ottawa
Today, Métis National Council President, Clément Chartier, joined other Aboriginal leaders in Ottawa to express concern about the growing early election talk. President Chartier says, “The First Ministers Meeting on Aboriginal issues scheduled for November 24th and 25th in Kelowna must be allowed to proceed without being overshadowed by other distractions.” He added, “The Métis Nation is on the threshold of the federal door and the FMM process is an opportunity for the Métis to begin to find our rightful place in Canadian society.” (Nov 14)


Jack Layton commits to Métis Nation he will Attend First Ministers’ Meeting on Aboriginal Issues if Invited by the Prime Minister
Tonight, in an evening telephone conference call with Audrey Poitras, Vice President of the Métis National Council and David Chartrand, President of the Manitoba Métis Federation, NDP Leader Jack Layton gave his personal commitment that one of his party’s main objectives is to “protect the integrity of the First Ministers’ Meeting on Aboriginal Issues and ensure that it goes ahead.” Mr. Layton stated to the Métis Nation’s leadership that the NDP motion calling for a January election will be tabled on November 24th, but will not be voted on until the following week. “This would ensure the Prime Minister does not have to be there for the motion, just for the vote which will take place on Monday or Tuesday,” said Layton. (Nov 9)


Métis Nation calls on Jack Layton and NDP to allow historic First Ministers’ Meeting to be held
Today, Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council called on Jack Layton and the NDP to hold off on forcing a federal election, in order to allow the upcoming First Ministers´ Meeting (“FMM”) on Aboriginal issues to be held in Kelowna, British Columbia on November 24th & 25th. “Over the past year, the Métis Nation, along with the First Nations and Inuit, have been working with the federal government, the provinces and the territories in order to make this historic meeting a reality. It has been over a decade since this country’s Aboriginal leadership have had a meeting like this at the highest political levels. Quite frankly, Aboriginal peoples do not often take centre stage in the affairs of this nation. Our people do not want to see this opportunity slip away because we do not know when an opportunity like this will come around again,” said President Chartier. (Nov 8)


Calling Home Journey concludes
Interviews along with the agenda and list of the names of the Veterans and Youth that went on the Calling Home Spiritual Journey. Includes photos and video footage. (Nov 04)


October


Louis Riel Day Celebration at the Law Society of Upper Canada Toronto ON
The Law Society of Upper Canada, in partnership with the Métis Nation of Ontario, the Métis National Council, the City of Toronto Aboriginal Employee Celebration Committee and Rotiio>taties Aboriginal Advisory Group, is hosting a celebration event for Louis Riel Day on Wednesday, November 16, 2005 You are invited to attend our panel discussion on the topic of "The Honour of the Crown: Evolving from Incantation to Practice" from 4:00pm to 6:00pm and our reception from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Convocation Hall at the Law Society. (Oct 25)


What can you do for the 2010 Olympics and Paralympics?
It may be four years away but now is the time to start thinking about the 2010 Olympics and Paralympics. It’s an opportunity for not only Vancouver but Canada to shine to the world at the Olympic Winter games scheduled for February 12th – 28th in Vancouver and Whistler while the Paralympics will be held in Whistler March 12th – 21st, 2010. And you can become involved! The Vancouver Olympic Committee (VANOC) and the Federal government have made a commitment to fully engage Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples (Métis, Inuit and First Nations) in every aspect of the games. Whether it’s as a volunteer, worker, providing cultural entertainment, carrying the torch or as an Olympic athlete – the opportunities are endless.
(Oct 23)


Métis Veterans to be featured on Aboriginal Peoples’ Television Network (APTN)
During National Veterans week, November 5th to 13th, Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) will air two features which highlight the on-going struggles of Métis Veterans. Both features were produced by the National Métis Veterans Association. (Oct 23)


Senate Committee on Aboriginal Affairs prepare western tour to hear from grassroots Métis
Last June, on behalf of the Métis Nation, Audrey Poitras, President of the Métis Nation of Alberta and Métis Nation Minister for Economic Development, made a presentation to the Senate Committee on Aboriginal Affairs on their Special Study on the involvement of Aboriginal communities and businesses in economic development activities in Canada. “Métis are known for our entrepreneurial spirit. We are known as ardent advocates of free trade. However, hand-in-hand with our desire for free trade, is our desire for fair trade and the need to create a level economic playing field. This field has not been level for the Métis. We have not had the opportunity to fully participate in the Canadian economy,” said President Poitras. (Oct 23)


Prime Minister Invites Premiers, Territorial Leaders, And Leaders Of National Aboriginal Organizations To A First Ministers' Meeting
Prime Minister Paul Martin today announced a First Ministers' Meeting in Kelowna, British Columbia, on November 24-25, 2005. The Prime Minister has invited Premiers, Territorial Leaders and Leaders of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), the Métis National Council (MNC), the Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC) and the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) to participate in the meeting, which will be held at the Grand Okanagan Hotel. "This meeting will be an important opportunity to further the work that has been done, over the past year and a half, to bridge the gap in the quality of life for Aboriginal people," said the Prime Minister. "I look forward to discussions with First Ministers and National Aboriginal Leaders during the upcoming meeting." The meeting builds on the strengthened relationship emerging from the September 13, 2004 Special Meeting between First Ministers and Aboriginal Leaders and is an opportunity for the federal, provincial and territorial governments to discuss how to improve the lives of Aboriginal Peoples. A detailed agenda will be made available at a later date. As a result, the Prime Minister will not attend the meeting of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta on November 25-27, 2005. Canada will be represented by Foreign Affairs Minister Pierre Pettigrew. (Oct 21)


Métis National Council President And Federal Interlocutor For Métis And Non-status Indians Announce Appointment Of Special Representatives For Canada-Métis Nation Framework Agreement
Today, Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council and the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, announced their respective special representatives for the implementation of the Canada-Métis Nation Framework Agreement. The Canada-Métis Nation Framework Agreement was signed on May 31st of this year at a retreat between the federal Cabinet Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and the leaders of the National Aboriginal Organizations. With this agreement, the federal government and the Métis Nation committed to engage in a new partnership based on mutual respect, responsibility and sharing. Central to this new relationship is the agreements objectives to engage in a renewed partnership in order to identify and implement initiatives that will help improve the quality of life of Métis people within Canada, to build the capacity of the Métis National Council, and to develop a manageable negotiation and discussion processes, as appropriate, that will address Aboriginal rights and issues of the Métis. (Oct 21)


Women of the Métis Nation meeting held recently in Vancouver
Women of the Métis Nation held an important meeting in Vancouver, BC on October 16th, 2005 following the Special Assembly. WMN spokesperson Rosemarie McPherson says, "It was an honour for us to be a part of the Special Assembly. It also allowed the WMN Board to meet face to face to discuss a string of issues." Federal under-funding has been a growing concern for the WMN. (Oct 17)


Canada's Aboriginal Policy Questioned at United Nations
Today and tomorrow, October 18, 2005, the United Nations Human Rights Committee in Geneva will be examining representatives of the federal government on Canada’s report on its compliance with its international obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. One of the main issues to be raised by the Committee will be related to Canadian performance of its human rights obligations regarding Indigenous peoples. In that regard, the Métis National Council (MNC) and KAIROS, a national coalition of Christian churches that works on social justice issues, have made joint representations to the Committee as it prepares to examine the report that Canada submitted to the Committee earlier this year. (Oct 17)


Métis Nation Identifies Métis Harvesting Rights As A Priority For Upcoming First Ministers Meeting
Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council (“MNC”) announced that the Métis Nation has now concluded its Special Assembly on the upcoming First Ministers Meeting on Aboriginal Issues (“FMM”). Over 50 elected Métis leaders from Ontario west gathered in Vancouver over the weekend to be updated on and prepare for the FMM. Coming out of the Special Assembly, the Métis Nation has identified the need for governments in Canada to recognize and respect the harvesting rights of the Métis people as a priority issue for the upcoming FMM. In September 2003, in the Powley case, the Supreme Court of Canada unanimously confirmed that the Métis are a “full fledged rights-bearing people” whose harvesting rights are of equal to those of Indian and Inuit peoples. The Supreme Court directed governments to work with Métis in order to ensure legitimate harvesters are able to exercise their constitutionally protected rights without fear or harassment or charges. The Supreme Court also stressed the need for governments to support Métis in establishing identification systems for Métis rights-holders as an “urgent priority”. (Oct 17)


Powerpoint overview from the Special Assembly Meeting
A Powerpoint overview from the Special Assembly Meeting in Vancouver October 15th and 16th 2005. A PDF version is also available. (Oct 16)


Harry Daniels – A Métis Man for the People (video)
Métis Leader Harry Daniels was a man who led a nation by example.  In 1982, he was successful in getting Métis entrenched in s. 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. (Oct 13)


The Métis National Youth Advisory Council Communications Team met in Edmonton October 12th and 13th for a brainstorming session
Métis National Youth Advisory Council Communications Team met in Edmonton October 12th and 13th for a brainstorming session. On hand for the meeting were Jennifer Brown, Josh Mazurat, Conor Lloyd and Pauline Huppie-Parsons. They discussed a number of story idea's for the next edition of the Métis Youth Gazette.  Look for articles about Louis Riel and Cuthbert Grant also, exicitng news about the 2010 Olympics set for Vancouver as well as opportunities to consider for National Aboriginal Days and much more. ( Oct 13)


Working Toward the First Ministers Meeting
As part of the FMM preparatory process and following up on his pre-Council of the Federation Meeting with Aboriginal Leaders commitment in August, Premier Gordon Campbell of BC, accompanied by BC Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Tom Christenson, visited Ottawa and met with Métis National Council President Clément Chartier and Métis Nation British Columbia President Bruce Dumont on October 12, 2005. A positive exchange about the results sought, identification of Métis-specific announcements the MNC is looking for at the FMM, and the need for a 10-year action plan were discussed. BC and Canada will co-host the FMM which has now been confirmed for November 25, 2005 in Kelowna, BC. (Oct 12)


Prime Minister's Welcome to Special Assembly (video)
Prime Minister Paul Martin speaks to the Métis Nation at the Special Assembly in Vancouver. For more information on the First Ministers Meeting follow this link (Oct 05)


World Indigenous Peoples’ Sports & Physical Education Conference
International Inc. (a non-profit Corporation) will be hosting a world conference of Indigenous Peoples in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada on November 28 & 29th, 2005 to discuss specific issues that impact Indigenous Peoples’ regional and international sports activities and levels of participation. (Oct 03)


September


Métis Nation Concerned About Being ‘The Forgotten People’ At The Upcoming First Ministers Meeting On Aboriginal Issues
Today, Métis National Council President, Clément Chartier, expressed concern about the upcoming First Ministers Meeting on Aboriginal Issues due to the lack of Métis-specific commitments emerging from ongoing negotiations with the federal and provincial governments. “If First Ministers truly want to achieve results from this meeting, they cannot continue to have blinders on and completely ignore one of the three constitutionally recognized Aboriginal peoples.  The usual federal-provincial jurisdictional positioning in relation to the Métis will not bring about the ‘transformative change’ we all seek, it just perpetuates Métis people falling further and further behind other Canadians,” stated President Chartier. (Sep 26)


The Métis National Council hosted a two day Métis Nation Multilateral meeting in Ottawa
The Métis Nation Multilateral Caucus, which includes representatives from each of the Métis Nation’s Governing Members and the MNC , met for two days in Ottawa on September 15th and 16th, 2005. MNC President Clément Chartier in his welcoming comments referred to the progress in relationships with the Federal and Provincial Governments, particularly the signing on May 31, 2005 of the Canada-Métis Nation Framework Agreement, and participation in preparation leading toward the upcoming First Ministers Meeting (FMM) on Aboriginal issues, now set for November 25, 2005 in Kelowna, BC. While acknowledging this progress, President Chartier noted that much work remains to be done and governments must fully engage with the Métis Nation to implement the capacity and support required for transformative change. This includes evaluation and measurement of progress on specific indicators on a regular basis throughout the next ten years, the initial period identified for outcomes linked to initiatives stemming from this year’s FMM. (Sep 16)


August


Back to Batoche Part 2
They came by plane and car; they came by boat and wagon. From far and wide, thousands gathered on July 21st to 24th to celebrate Métis history and culture at the 35th Annual Back to Batoche Days. Again this year, Métis National Council was proud to be a sponsor at this historic event. Back to Batoche Days was a time to set aside politics and business. There was plenty to enjoy and old friendships to renew. The celebrations began with the arrival of a group of wagons that gathered from across the Métis Homeland at the site of the historic battle of Fish Creek that occurred in April 1885. There, they paid tribute to military leader Gabriel Dumont, political leader Louis Riel and the Métis who had fought to protect Métis rights as they faced General Middleton and the Northwest Mounted Police at a dog leg in Fish Creek. Among the dignitaries on hand for the ceremony were Métis National Council President Clément Chartier, Métis Nation – Saskatchewan President Dwayne Roth, Manitoba Métis Federation President David Chartrand, Rosemarie McPherson, National spokesperson with the Women of the Métis Nation and Gary Lipinski representing the Métis Nation of Ontario. (Aug 15)


Aboriginal Leaders and Premiers Meet in the on-going process leading to the First Ministers Meeting
Métis National Council President Clément Chartier and other National Aboriginal Leaders will be meeting with Premiers in Calgary today, in the on-going process leading to the First Ministers Meeting on Aboriginal issues (FMM) this fall. President Chartier looks forward to the dialogue and thanks Premier Ralph Klein for hosting his fellow Premiers and Aboriginal Leaders. “This year has been an encouraging one with respect to progress in Crown-Métis Nation relations, says President Chartier. The recent signing (2005 May 31) of the “Métis Nation Framework Agreement” sparked a new era of cooperation between the Métis Nation and the federal government. Our existing relationships with provincial governments across the Métis Homeland are equally important. In order to advance the Métis agenda and find solutions to a number of serious issues, we seek continued support and cooperation from the Premiers and their governments. In particular, we want to see concrete deliverables announced during the FMM and are looking to this meeting as another key step to outlining some of those objectives.” (Aug 9)


Back to Batoche Part 1
Métis National Council and Board of Governors hard at work prior to Back to Batoche celebrations. Discussions focused on the Health Blueprint, Post-Powley Funding, preparing the 2005 Harvesters Guide, Polling Research on Métis Communities and the latest on the Métis Archival Project at the U of A. They came by plane and car; they came by boat and wagon. From far and wide, thousands gathered on July 21st to 24th to celebrate Métis history and culture at the 35th Annual Back to Batoche Days. (Aug 3)


July


Métis Veterans join “Spiritual Campaign”
Several years ago, the President of the National Métis Veterans Association Ed Borchert had a vision. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to take a group of Veterans back to Europe to not only pay tribute to fallen comrades overseas but to hold a special ceremony to bring home the spirits of the dead soldiers to their ancestors in Canada. In this, the “Year of the Veteran” that vision will become reality. Métis, Inuit and First Nations Veterans will get a rare opportunity to take part in the “Calling Home Ceremony” in association with the Government of Canada through Veterans Affairs and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. (July 27)


Canada's Aboriginal Youth : An Opportunity To Participate In The Aboriginal Spiritual Journey
Canada's Aboriginal Veterans, in conjunction with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Veterans Affairs Canada, will undertake a special Aboriginal Spiritual Journey to the Battlefields of Europe to call home the Spirits of our fallen Warriors. The Journey will comprise: Second World War Veterans; Aboriginal Traditional Spiritual Leaders; National Aboriginal Leaders; members of the Canadian Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. (July 19)


Another Win For Métis Rights! : Saskatchewan Court Affirms Métis Right To Harvest : Rejects Saskatchewan’s Narrow Interpretation Of Métis Rights
Yet another provincial Court has affirmed that Métis have constitutionally protected harvesting rights that must be recognized and respected by governments. The case, R. v. Laviolette, was handed down on July 15th, 2005 by Judge Earl Kalenith of the Provincial Court of Saskatchewan. In his decision, Judge Kalenith found that Mr. Laviolette, a citizen of the Métis Nation living in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, has a Métis right to fish for food. Judge Kalenith acquitted Mr. Laviolette of fishing in a closed season by virtue of s. 13(1) of The Fisheries Regulations of Saskatchewan being inapplicable to him as a Métis rights-bearer. One of the central issues in the Laviolette case was addressing what is a “Métis community”. The Crown took the position that the Métis community equated to a fixed settlement and that harvesting rights were limited to the area immediately surrounding that settlement. The Crown also took the position that Métis harvesting rights were only exercisable in the Northern Administration District (NAD). The essence of the Crown’s argument was that only Métis who were ancestrally connected to a historic Métis settlement within the NAD, and who continued to live in that settlement, could exercise Métis harvesting rights. Mr. Laviolette is ancestrally connected to Green Lake, but lives in Meadow Lake (approximately 55 kilometers southwest of Green Lake and outside the NAD). He was fishing in Green Lake the day he was charged. (July 18)


Charlie - Métis Hunter, Trapper, Patriot, Soldier
The video "Charlie - Metis Hunter, Trapper, Patriot, Soldier" is going to be aired on CTV stations across the country - on July 16th at 2:30 - 3pm local time. The show was produced in association with the National Metis Veterans Association and CTV Saskatchewan. (July 14)


Métis National Council President Congratulates President Poitras On Being Named One Of Alberta’s 50 Most Influential People
Métis National Council President, Clément Chartier, congratulated Métis Nation of Alberta President, Audrey Poitras, on being named one of “Alberta’s 50 Most Influential People” by Alberta Venture magazine. In its ninth annual listing, Alberta Venture identifies 50 Albertans from all walks of life who have made a significant impact and difference in the province over the last twelve months. These individuals can include politicians, academics, radical thinkers, titans in industry, and philanthropists. Other influential Albertans recognized included Ralph Klein, Premier of Alberta, Patrick Daniel, President and CEO of Enbridge Inc. and Brian Heidecker , Vice-Chair, University of Alberta Board of Governors. (July 13)


Kikino Northern Lites dancers entertained the Canada Day crowd on Parliament Hill
A large crowd gathered as the young Métis jiggers delivered a lively performance during two :45 minute sets. And those not able to get close enough to see the dancers for themselves, were able to watch via two giant big-screens. (July 1)


June


“Francis – the Measure of a Métis Man”
On Sunday, July 3rd, 2005 at 8:30 pm (est) a CTV Saskatchewan program Indigenous Circle, will air a special feature “Francis – the Measure of a Métis Man.” The _ hour show was produced in cooperation with the National Métis Veterans Association and CTV Saskatchewan and was funded by the Government of Canada. “Francis – the Measure of a Métis Man” focuses on the life of Francis Goodon from the Turtle Mountain region of Southwestern Manitoba. His is the story of a boy who learned the ways of the Métis – fishing, hunting and trapping and working hard to earn a dollar. And how, even as a man, he found he had to constantly prove himself but how his Métis background helped him get through as a Métis growing up during the depression or as a Métis Prisoner of War. (June 30)


President’s planning committee for the well-being of the Métis Child Conference
On June 29, 2005, President Chartier convened a meeting of the committee organizing a national conference on the Well-being of the Métis Child. The committee, consisting of representatives of the five Governing Members, as well as representatives of the Women of the Métis Nation and the Métis National Youth Advisory Council, discussed the current situation in each province, and reached consensus on the broad outlines of the conference.
The conference is planned for March or April 2006 in Winnipeg. (June 29)


U of A offers a sneak peak into the Métis Archival Project
Métis National Council President Clément Chartier traveled to Edmonton recently to attend the opening of the School of Native Studies/University of Alberta Métis Archival Project and to mark the 5th anniversary of Matri-X (Métis Aboriginal Title Research Initiative – X). Professor Frank Tough and his team of young researchers began Matri-X in April 1999, with the mandate to investigate historical land use and occupancy of the Métis in Northwestern Saskatchewan. Plus, Matri-X looked at the federal scrip policies of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The event featured a live demonstration of the Métis Archival Project which will soon be a valuable tool for anyone wishing to research their genealogy. (June 27)


Métis National Council takes next step leading to First Ministers Meeting
Métis National Council President Clément Chartier along with National Aboriginal Leaders from ITK and AFN, Federal-Provincial/Territorial Ministers are meeting today in Ottawa to begin planning for the First Ministers Meeting this fall. The recent signing (2005-May 31) of the “Métis Nation Framework Agreement” has sparked a new era of cooperation between the Métis Nation and the federal government. President Chartier says, “By meeting with the various levels of government, we hope to encourage Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers to begin working cooperatively with us in finding solutions to several serious issues. We are concerned about advancing the Métis agenda in a number of areas such as health, housing and education.  In particular, we want to see concrete deliverables announced during the FMM.  Nothing else will do.”  (June 27)


Ontario Court Upholds Métis Nation Of Ontario's Harvesting Agreement With Government Of Ontario
The Ontario Superior Court of Justice, has upheld the Harvesting Agreement that was agreed to by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and the Ontario Minister of Natural Resources (MNR) on July 7th of last year. MNO President Tony Belcourt said, "We are pleased with the decision. We appreciate the rigor with which the Government of Ontario defended its agreement with the MNO. That agreement recognizes the integrity of the MNO Registry Process and MNO Harvesting Policy. This decision further legitimizes the recognition by the Government of Ontario of the historic Métis communities represented by the Métis Nation of Ontario. While we have ongoing issues to deal with in terms of ensuring that the Government of Ontario extends the Harvesting Agreement‚s protection to all of our historic Métis communities in this province, McMillan‚s decision ensures others cannot undermine the MNO‚s work and the relationship that has been built with the Government of Ontario. This is a decisive victory for the Métis Nation of Ontario." The Ontario Superior Court of Justice, has upheld the Harvesting Agreement that was agreed to by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and the Ontario Minister of Natural Resources (MNR) on July 7th of last year. (June 24)


National Aboriginal Day highlights: June 21st, 2005 in Ottawa - Paying tribute to our Veterans this year
“ Charlie – Metis Hunter Trapper, Patriot, Soldier” a feature produced by the MNC and the National Metis Veterans Association will be aired at the Museum of Civilization which is where the MNC booth will be located – it’ll run all day long. Also, we’ll have Metis balloons and tattoo’s. (June 22)


Métis Nation Makes Presentation To Senate Committee On Aboriginal Affairs Regarding Economic Opportunities
Today, on behalf of the Métis Nation, Audrey Poitras, President of the Métis Nation of Alberta and Métis Nation Minister for Economic Development, made a presentation to the Senate Committee on Aboriginal Affairs on their Special Study on the involvement of Aboriginal communities and businesses in economic development activities in Canada. “Métis are known for our entrepreneurial spirit. We are known as ardent advocates of free trade. However, hand-in-hand with our desire for free trade, is our desire for fair trade and the need to create a level economic playing field. This field has not been level for the Métis. We have not had the opportunity to fully participate in the Canadian economy,” said President Poitras. (June 15)


Métis National Council President Clément Chartier attends the Organization of American States meeting
Métis National Council President Clément Chartier has just returned from the Organization of American States meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. There was an address by President George Bush and a large group of demonstrators and high security outside and inside the Convention Centre. The Organization of American States (OAS) brings together the countries of the Western Hemisphere to strengthen cooperation and advance common interests. It is the region’s premier forum for multilateral dialogue and concerted action. (June 14)


Prime Minister Paul Martin Receives "Order of the Metis Nation"
Prime Minister Paul Martin has received the prestigious "Order of the Métis Nation" following the historic federal Cabinet Committee Policy Retreat in Ottawa. Prime Minister Martin joins a small but distinguished group of leaders to receive the award which is presented to those who have played a major role in moving the Métis agenda forward. Today, at a Policy Retreat between the federal Cabinet Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Aboriginal Leaders, the Métis Nation and the Government of Canada signed a historic Métis Nation Framework Agreement. (June 1)


May


Cabinet Committee Policy Retreat
A new section has been opened on the MNC website dedicated to the events surrounding the Cabinet Committee Policy Retreat in Ottawa. (May 31)


Métis Nation signs historic Framework Agreement with Government of Canada
Today, at a Policy Retreat between the federal Cabinet Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Aboriginal Leaders, the Métis Nation and the Government of Canada signed a historic Métis Nation Framework Agreement. For many years, based on numerous mandates from the Métis National Council's General Assembly, the Métis Nation has pressed the Government of Canada to sign such a Framework Agreement. Last year, at the Canada-Aboriginal Peoples Roundtable, Prime Minister Paul Martin took the bold step of publicly recognizing the Métis Nation. This acknowledgement of the Métis Nation's existence, from a sitting Canadian Prime Minister, was unprecedented. Moreover, at the Roundtable, Prime Minister Martin committed to entering into a Framework Agreement with the Métis Nation. As a result, over the last year, the leadership of the Métis Nation has negotiated with Minister Andy Scott, in his capacity as Federal Interlocutor for Métis, to formally capture this recognition as well as set out a process to build a new government-to-government relationship between the Métis Nation and Canada. (May 31)


Federal Ministers And National Aboriginal Leaders Participate In Joint Policy Retreat
The Prime Minister, members of the Cabinet Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and the leaders of five National Aboriginal Organizations met today for a Policy Retreat in a new spirit of cooperation and to address long-term challenges. The leaders of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), the Métis National Council (MNC), the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) and the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) also signed joint accords with the Government of Canada that will ensure their direct involvement in Aboriginal policy development. “Today marks an important step in building a stronger and more positive relationship between the Government of Canada and Aboriginal Canadians,” said the Prime Minister. “The Canada-Aboriginal Roundtable Process that we launched a year ago, and the work we have done today, moves us closer to our goal of closing the gap in the quality of life for Aboriginal peoples.” (May 31)


Métis Nation and Government of Canada Ready to Sign Historic Framework Agreement
On Tuesday, May 31st, 2005 the federal Cabinet Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Aboriginal Leaders will hold a long awaited Policy Retreat. The Policy Retreat will be an opportunity to discuss the Government of Canada's relationship with the three constitutionally recognized Aboriginal peoples; namely, the Métis, First Nations and Inuit. Specifically, it will be an opportunity for the Government of Canada to solidify that relationship with the Métis Nation through the signing of a Métis Nation Framework Agreement. (May 30)


UN urges Canada to establish Metis Lands Claims Process
The Métis Nation is encouraged with the recent findings of a United Nation's report examining Aboriginal human rights and fundamental freedoms in Canada. The United Nation's Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of Indigenous peoples, Rodolfo Stavenhagen, outlined in his report to the United Nations that the Canadian government appears committed to closing the unacceptable socio-economic gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians. However, he was also clear with regard to the Métis people that important areas of concern remain to be addressed, noting in particular: "Métis land claims have not been dealt with in any significant way, except partially in Alberta, leaving the Métis without a land and resource base and with no way of settling their grievances at the national level." (May 19)


Métis Nation Leadership Calls on Members of Parliament to Vote in Support of Upcoming Budget Bill
Following a meeting of the Métis National Council Board of Governors held in Ottawa, the Métis Nation's leadership called upon all Members of Parliament to vote in support of the upcoming federal budget bill. "There are numerous initiatives of importance to the Métis Nation in the budget bill. Specifically, the $30 million committed to support on-going work on the implementation of the Supreme Court of Canada's decision in the Powley case is critical to our people. Further, we hope the Government of Canada will soon announce commitments to work with the Métis Nation on compensation for Métis Veterans, enhancements to Métis-specific bursaries and Métis child care initiatives," said Métis National Council President, Clément Chartier. (May 13)


Métis Nation Leadership Asks Federal Parties Where They Stand on Métis Issues
Today, on behalf of the Métis Nation, Métis National Council President, Clément Chartier, wrote to the leadership of all the federal parties requesting their party's policy positions on Métis issues. "As you are well aware, it appears that a federal election is imminent. The Métis National Council is in the process of undertaking an analysis of the federal parties' policy platforms vis-à-vis Métis with a view to fully informing our citizens in the upcoming election" wrote President Chartier. Further, President Chartier posed a series of specific questions with respect to Métis rights, self-government and improving the quality of life of Métis Nation citizens. (May 12)


April


The Facts About Métis Harvesting
Prior to Canada's crystallization as a country, the Métis have harvested for food in order to sustain ourselves as an Aboriginal people. We have continued this practice through the generations and it is essential to our on-going existence and health as a people.
Recently, many so-called "conservationists" have been attacking governments and the courts for recognizing the constitutional rights of the Métis people to hunt and fish for food from Ontario west. Their unsubstantiated and inaccurate claims suggest Métis harvesting is "unregulated" and will "destroy fish and wildlife supplies for others". Nothing could be further from the truth. (Apr 26)


Métis Nation has high expectations for upcoming Policy Retreat with Federal Cabinet
Now is the time for action from the federal government in dealing with the priority issues facing the Métis Nation. Today, Minister Andy Scott announced that on May 31st, the federal Cabinet Committee on Aboriginal Affairs will host a Policy Retreat with the leadership of the three constitutionally recognized Aboriginal peoples. Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council (MNC), remains cautiously optimistic Métis will finally see some concrete action from the Paul Martin Government in addressing the unique needs of Métis in education, housing, economic development and child care. Further, President Chartier stressed the need to finalize the proposed Canada-Métis Nation Framework Agreement which will be central in defining a new results-based relationship between the Métis Nation and Canada. (Apr 19)


McPherson named Métis Women's secretariat spokesperson
During the Métis Women's Secretariat National Forum in Winnipeg on April 12th and 13th, 2005, Rosemarie was acclaimed as the National Spokesperson. Audrey Poitras - Vice President of the Métis National Council offers her congratulations and best wishes. Vice President Poitras says, "Rosemarie has performed admirably in her role as National Spokesperson for the Métis Women's Secretariat. Her hard work in addressing women's issues across the Métis Homeland has not gone unnoticed." (Apr 15)


Métis Nation applauds B.C. Court ruling recognizing Métis Harvesting Rights
Today, Métis National Council President, Clément Chartier, joined with the leadership of the Métis Provincial Council of British Columbia (MPCBC), in heralding the R. v. Willison decision of the British Columbia Provincial Court which recognizes and affirms that Métis in British Columbia have the right to harvest for food. The Willison case began back in November 2000 when Greg Willison, a citizen of the Métis Nation, was stopped by a conservation officer outside of Falkland, British Columbia. Mr. Willison had a mule deer and informed the officer he was exercising his Métis right to hunt for food. He produced his MPCBC membership card to the officer. The officer seized the deer and charged Mr. Willison under the British Columbia Wildlife Act. (Apr 14)


Métis Nation - Canada Partnership to Explore Métis Veterans History and Contributions
Yesterday in an April 4, 2005 letter, the Honourable Albina Guarnieri, Minister of Veterans Affairs, committed to a partnership with the Métis Nation and to provide funding to explore the history and contributions of Métis Veterans during the wars and subsequent demobilization, including the review of the treatment Métis were subject to entering and returning from WWII and the Korean War. In the letter, the Minister also committed to follow-up, as expeditiously as possible, with Métis Veterans and their spouses to ensure they are receiving the benefits and services for which they are entitled. These announcements followed a March 21, 2005 Minister's meeting with President David Chartrand, Métis National Council Minister responsible for Métis Veterans and President of the Manitoba Métis Federation, and with Ed Borchert, President of the National Métis Veterans Association. (Apr 5)


March


Métis Youth/Lawyer Recognized
Jason Madden, legal counsel for the MNC received a newly formed Metis Youth of Great Honour award from the MNYAC's Jennifer Brown during the General Assembly in Calgary. He wasn't able to attend the youth conference in Winnipeg so, he was awarded the honour in Calgary. Also, Jason's night was topped off with the Metis National Council's Presidents Recognition Award presented by MNC President Clement Chartier in recognition for his time and dedication.
(Mar 19)


State of the Nation Address By President Clem Chartier Métis National Council General Assembly March 19th, 2005
At the Métis National Council's General Assembly in Calgary, Alberta on Saturday, March 19th MNC President Clément Chartier gave this State of the Nation Address. (Mar 19)


The Métis Nation Assembles in Calgary
The Métis National Council will host its General Assembly in Calgary, Alberta on Saturday and Sunday March 19th and 20th, 2005 at Fairmont Palliser Hotel. The Métis Nation faces many challenges and the Métis National Council (MNC) lead by President Clément Chartier, is seeking direction from the Governing Members from across the Métis Nation Homeland.President Chartier says, "These meetings are extremely important to the M.N.C. because as the governing authority of the Métis Nation in Ottawa, the decisions from our Governing Members, will set the stage for future discussions." (Mar 14)


Métis Nation Releases Compilation of Canada-Aboriginal Peoples Policy Papers
Today, the Métis National Council released its compilation of policy papers from the Canada-Aboriginal Peoples Roundtable sectoral sessions process. The papers focus on the areas of Health, Life Long Learning, Housing, Economic Opportunities, Negotiations and Accountability. In order to prepare these policy paper, the Métis Nation undertook a series of consultations with Métis leadership, Métis community representatives, officials working in Métis program and services delivery, academics and experts in these respective sectors. Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council stated, "I would like to thank all of the people who participated in our consultations and represented the Métis Nation in the various sectoral sessions. I look forward to working with the Government of Canada in order to implement the excellent ideas, proposals and recommendations that were brought forth on behalf of the Métis people." (Mar 11)


Métis Nation To Join RCMP In Honouring Officers
The Métis Nation will stand side by side with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police on Thursday March 10th in Edmonton, to honour the four brave police officers killed in the line of duty in Mayerthorpe, Alberta. Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council and Métis National Council Vice-President and President of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Audrey Poitras, will join Prime Minister Paul Martin, RCMP Commissioner Giuliano Zaccardelli and many others to pay respects. The Métis Nation unites with the RCMP and all Canadians, as one voice, speaking out loud against violence and in this time of memorial, expressing our deepest sympathies to the families. (Mar 9)