Métis Nation–Saskatchewan takes historic step on the path to self-government through official launch of Kischi mashinahikan ooschi Michif

Press Release

May 27, 2024 – Treaty 6 Territory and Heartland of the Métis, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan –,

Today, Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) announced its path for the pursuit of self-government through Kischi mashinahikan ooschi Michif – the Sacred Document of the Michif. This self-government agreement is a modern treaty being negotiated with Canada and and will constitutionally protect the right of self-government of the Metis in Saskatchewan, recognizing its jurisdiction over core governance matters.

Following its withdrawal from Bill C-53 on April 17, 2024, MN-S committed to forging its own path forward. Self-government negotiations have been occurring for more than five years as part of a concerted effort by the Metis government to advance the recognition of its inherent right to self-government and self-determination. On February 24th, 2023 the Metis Nation Saskatchewan Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Agreement was signed and committed Canada and the MN-S to reaching a final, constitutionally protected deal.

Since that time, negotiations have progressed positively. MN-S is excited to discuss with its citizens and communities what a Saskatchewan-Métis-made nation-to-nation agreement with Canada looks like, that respects and reflects Métis identity, culture, values, and language. This process that will occur over several months, led by the Provincial Métis Council and community leaders across the province.

“This is our moment,” said Glen McCallum, President of the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan. “Our Nation has been fighting for Kischi mashinahikan ooschi Michif for 150 years. Today, we are one very important step closer to fully realizing our inherent right to self-government.”

“As we embark on this new path to self-determination, our Nation’s values and priorities remain unchanged,” said Michelle LeClair, Vice President of the Métis Nation– Saskatchewan. “Kischi mashinahikan ooschi Michif places our citizens at the centre of our Nation’s success. By exercising our right to self-determination, we are enhancing our government’s ability to support a healthy, vibrant, and prosperous Métis Nation in Saskatchewan for this generation and the next.”

MN-S will call on citizens to ratify the Sacred Document in Fall of 2024 in anticipation of federal implementation legislation in early 2025.

About Métis Nation–Saskatchewan:

Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) is built on a foundation of Métis identity, culture, values, and language. Empowered by the Métis within Saskatchewan, MN–S works to advance Métis rights and strengthen capacity. MN–S represents the political, socioeconomic, cultural, and educational interests of the Métis in the province through an elected representative system at local, regional, and provincial levels. Social media Links: @MNSask, @metisnationsask

For media inquiries:

Rena Montgomerie – MN–S Senior Communications Officer r.montgomerie@mns.work or 306-250-1092

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