Métis Nation–Saskatchewan withdraws from Métis National Council

Press Release

September 19, 2024 – Treaty 6 Territory and Homeland of the Métis, Saskatoon, SK – Effective immediately Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) has officially withdrawn from the Métis National Council (MNC).

The ‘Resolution to Withdraw from the MNC’ was presented at the regular monthly meeting of the Provincial Métis Council and states that effective immediately, MN– S is the National Government representing the Métis Nation within Saskatchewan provincially, nationally, and internationally to advocate for the recognition of our rights and to advance the wellbeing of our citizens, families, and communities.

“This was not a decision our government made lightly but one we felt necessary. Our MN–S government and our Métis communities need to have control over our identity and culture while making decisions that align with the values of our Saskatchewan Métis Nation,” said MN–S President Glen McCallum.

After talking to Métis citizens over the last several months about Kishchi Mashinaayikun Ooshchi Michif–the Sacred Document from the Michif treaty process, MN–S has refocused its priorities and determined it is in the strongest position to independently advocate for Métis citizens in Saskatchewan with all other governments. Recent work of the Chair of Métis Governance and Policy at University of Saskatchewan includes bringing together leading Métis scholars recognized as experts in their field to ensure our decisions are based on research, evidence, and the needs of our citizens. MN-S has determined our participation in the MNC is no longer necessary or beneficial to the work of our nation. This decision reflects MN-S’ commitment to an evidence-based process to address critical issues of the Nation and will allow us to focus on advancing Métis rights and moving forward the priorities that matter most to our citizens.

MN–S Provincial Secretary Lisa McCallum said, “This is a great day for our Métis Nation within Saskatchewan and a great day for Métis across the Homeland. We know who we are as Métis people. Our government has made significant strides in our own treaty process with Canada and will carry on with the work that benefits Saskatchewan Métis citizens and their families.”

MN–S remains committed to working alongside other legitimate Métis governments representing those with section 35 rights across the Homeland independent of the MNC structure. There are many common challenges and opportunities that can benefit Métis people by working together and we intend to strive for strong Métis solutions that recognize our distinctions.

“It is with the determination of our ancestors, the MN–S has overcome many challenges and unified to collaborate on and advance the priorities of our citizens and empower them to take pride in their Métis identity,” MN–S Vice President and Minister of Justice Michelle LeClair said. “We are assuming our rightful jurisdictions in the areas of governance, elections, citizenship, laws, and families. This is our moment, and we will create a lasting legacy that will resonate for generations to come.”

Through carefully crafted partnerships, MN–S has created the capacity to introduce distinctions-based programs that matter to citizens. From early learning grants and resources to the post-secondary education scholarship to the emergency repair program for Métis homeowners, the Métis government in Saskatchewan is listening to citizen concerns and moving forward to advance their priorities.

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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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