WINNIPEG, MB, Nov. 30, 2024 /CNW/ - Self-Government Treaties reaffirm Indigenous Peoples' right to self-government and self-determination. These co-developed agreements rightfully recognize the right of Indigenous Peoples to organize and govern themselves and to pass laws that apply to their citizens in a way that meets their needs, goals and traditions.
Today, David Chartrand, President of the Manitoba Métis Federation, Government of the Red River Métis and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations announced that they have signed the Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty. This Self-Government Treaty affirms and builds on previous work with the Manitoba Métis Federation in 2021.
This co-developed Treaty will recognize the Manitoba Métis Federation as the Government of the Red River Métis with an inherent right to self-government and law-making powers over its own citizenship, elections and other operations.
Now that the Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty is signed by the parties, the next step is to introduce federal legislation to bring it into effect. Once in effect, this governance Treaty will receive constitutional protection and it will replace the 2021 recognition agreement. It will also be the first Self-Government Treaty concluded with a Métis Government in Canada.
This is one example of how Canada is working with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners to implement the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and advance the right to self-determination. Canada will continue to work with all Indigenous partners to promote reconciliation, renew relationships and advance their visions for self-determination and a better future for the benefit of their citizens.
Quotes
"This is a turning point in Canada's history. We are correcting an historic wrong done to the Red River Métis, and showing the true character of our country. Together, we are showing that Canada is a place where we can face challenges and come to terms with mistakes of the past, and move forward in a positive way, forging a new history for future generations. The Red River Métis shaped the West and played a pivotal role in the foundation of our country. Now, through this treaty, we are confirmed as the architects of how Canadians and the world see us. This treaty was 154 years in the making, and is clearly a win-win for all Canadians, as we stand together on the right side of history. I look forward to the speedy progress of this treaty to Royal Assent, secure in the knowledge that there can be no rational objection to this shared achievement."