"Metis Nation" recognized as distinct group

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A deal that was six years in the making was struck on May 31 when representatives for the Metis National Council (MNC) and Canada became signatories to a framework agreement that lays the ground-work for future dealings between the parties.

In a nutshell, the agreement stresses negotiation rather than litigation for the recognition of Metis rights.

The Metis Nation Framework Agreement (MNFA) recognizes that the Metis Nation is formed of a group of people that emerged from west-central North America with their own language (Michif), culture, traditions and self-government structures. It also recognizes that this Metis Nation is represented by the Metis National Council and its governing members-the Metis Nation of Ontario, the Manitoba Metis Federation, the Metis Nation-Saskatchewan, the Metis Nation of Alberta, and the Metis Provincial Council of British Columbia.

"For the first time we have, in writing, the recognition of our nation," said MNC President Clement Chartier.

"I know it has been stated verbally by the prime minister a little over a year ago, but the federal bureaucracy was reluctant to embrace that ... now it has to be taken into account," he said.

(It is important to note that not all people who self-identify as Metis are members of the Metis Nation.)

Andy Scott, the federal interlocutor for Metis and non-Status Indians, said the MNFA renews the partnership between Canada and the Metis people.

"The Metis Nation Framework Agreement will act as an important foundational piece as we move forward on strengthening this relationship, as well as closing the gap between Metis people and other Canadians."

There is no new funding that results from this agreement, but Chartier believes it finally commits Canada to establishing an effective rights-based negotiation process.

The MNFA in itself does not recognize Aboriginal rights for Metis Nation members. Instead, it sets out the terms surrounding the discussion of Aboriginal rights, and the process for negotiation to move toward other agreements.

Windspeaker asked Chartier about the rights of Metis outside of the MNC. He said not all people of mixed ancestry are Metis or part of the historic Metis Nation. Chartier said organizations such as the Assembly of First Nations have to take a greater role in advocating for recognition of the rights of non-status people.

He said the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples has a strong role to play in this issue as well.