Ottawa, Ontario — December 4, 2025
The Métis National Council (MNC) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of its 2025 Annual General Assembly, held December 3–4 in Ottawa, Ontario. Elected leadership that comprise the Métis National Council General Assembly, together with Elders, Youth, and distinguished guests, gathered from across the Métis Homeland to advance shared priorities and strengthen the work of the Métis Nation moving into 2026.
Over two days of collaboration, dialogue, and engagement, delegates advanced critical discussions and passed resolutions that will guide the Council’s direction for the year ahead. These outcomes reflect a shared commitment to advancing Métis rights, supporting self-government, expanding economic opportunity, and improving the well-being of Métis citizens.
A major milestone of this year’s Assembly was the passage of a resolution supporting the establishment of the Métis Policy Forum. This non-political, collaborative forum will provide space for Federally Recognized Métis Governments and other Métis participants to discuss issues of common concern, coordinate policy approaches, and develop federal policy proposals, including identifying opportunities for joint advocacy and partnership.
Delegates endorsed several priority areas central to the future of Métis governance and nationhood, including:
- Ensuring Métis Governments and rights-bearing Métis communities are included in implementing the One Canadian Economy Act, safeguarding Métis rights while enabling equitable participation in national economic development;
- Supporting distinctions-based housing initiatives and strengthening coordinated responses to the housing needs of Métis families, communities, and rights-holders;
- Advancing Métis participation in federal and international trade diversification initiatives to ensure equitable access to emerging economic programs and opportunities;
- Calling for a dedicated First Ministers’ Meeting with Métis leadership to uphold Métis Nation representation within national intergovernmental processes alongside other Section 35 rights-holders;
- Urging Canada to prioritize implementation of the Indigenous Justice Strategy in collaboration with Métis Governments, supported by distinctions-based resources to address systemic barriers within the justice system; and
- Reaffirming Métis Nation leadership in climate action and calling on Canada to continue supporting Métis-led approaches to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Another significant moment of the Assembly was the introduction of the MNC’s new Chief Executive Officer, Raheel Baig-Mirza.
Mr. Baig-Mirza brings over 15 years of experience within the federal public service, including five years in executive leadership roles. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with Métis Governments on shared priorities spanning governance, housing, infrastructure, and advancing the Canada–Métis Nation Accord. Widely respected for his ability to convene partners, navigate complex initiatives, and strengthen distinctions-based policy development, Mr. Baig-Mirza steps into his role at a time of renewed focus on convening, research, and advocacy at the national level.
The MNC was honoured to welcome remarks from The Honourable Mandy Gull Masty (Indigenous Services Canada), The Honourable Rebecca Alty (Crown–Indigenous Relations), The Honourable Rebecca Chartrand (Northern and Arctic Affairs), and The Honourable Jill McKnight (Veterans Affairs). Their partnership and continued collaboration remain essential to advancing the priorities of the Métis Nation.
The Assembly concluded with a vibrant gala attended by more than 250 friends, allies, and partners of the Métis Nation from across Canada. The evening featured powerful performances from Métis artists representing regions across the Homeland, celebrating the strength, resilience, and beauty of Métis culture.
As the MNC moves forward, it remains focused on implementing the resolutions of the Assembly, advancing distinctions-based policy development, and strengthening relationships with Métis Governments, partners, and rights-holders. With renewed momentum, the MNC enters the year ahead united in its commitment to protecting Métis rights and building a strong future for Métis citizens across the Homeland.