Another Glass Ceiling Broken as Métis National Council Elects  Cassidy Caron to the Presidency

Caron becomes the first elected woman to lead the Métis Nation

Saskatoon, SK - Cassidy Caron is the new President of the Métis National Council, becoming the first elected woman to hold leadership of the organization. Caron previously served as the Minister for Youth at the Métis Nation of British Columbia (MNBC) and has roots in the historic Métis communities of Batoche and St. Louis, Saskatchewan.

“I want to thank the council for placing their trust in me,” said Caron. “I am grateful for this opportunity to once again serve the Métis Nation. As the first woman elected to hold this office, I know I am standing on the shoulders of all the women who made cracks in the glass ceiling before me and hope all Métis girls and young women across our Nations know that all possibilities are open to them. I also acknowledge that my election comes on the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This very important day is our opportunity to turn a page and build the future of the Métis Nation.”

Caron’s election is being hailed as a return to democratic governance and strong leadership for the Métis National Council, after the previous administration had delayed holding an election for over a year following the expiration of their mandate.

“I want to offer my most sincere congratulations to the new president,” said MNA president Audrey Poitras, who served as Interim President of the MNC in 2003. “Electing female leadership sends a strong message across our nation. I wish her all the best, and I know she will do great things for Métis across our Homeland.”

Caron was elected to the presidency on the third ballot at the Métis National Council after the concession of former MNC president and MN-S Vice President Gerald Morin.

“I want to congratulate President Caron on her election,” said Morin, “I wholeheartedly extend my full support to her. I am happy to pass the torch of our Nation to the next generation of Métis and look forward to a bright future for our people with Ms. Caron at the helm. Today is about renewal and exciting opportunities for our Nations.”

The Métis National Council (MNC) represents the Métis Nation on the national and international stage. It is the representative body of the provincial Métis governments of Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. There are approximately 400,000 Métis people living across Canada. The MNC is committed to fulfilling the vision of Louis Riel.