MKO Welcomes the Senate Committee Vote to End Second-Generation Cut-Off and Calls for Full Repeal and Replacement with Inclusive Definition

Press Release

November 21, 2025

Treaty Five Territory, Opaskwayak Cree Nation – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) welcomes the Senate Committee’s decision to eliminate the discriminatory second-generation cut-off rule, and implement a one-parent rule, that allows anyone with status under the Indian Act to pass their legal identity and rights on to their children.

Grand Chief Garrison Settee appeared before the Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples in October, to advocate for the full repeal and replacement of the second-generation cut-off rule.

At the time Grand Chief Settee stated:

“150 years of our experience with the State has done irreparable harm to our people and has assaulted our languages and our culture.” Grand Chief Settee told Senators, “We are here to right wrongs and correct the damage that has been done… 150 years later it is time we forged a path forward and include all our people. That’s why we are here.”

MKO recommends adopting the inclusive criteria found in the original pre-Confederation 1850 definition under the Indian Act, which recognizes:

1)All persons of Indian blood, reputed to belong to a particular Tribe or Body of Indians, and their descendants

2) All persons intermarried with such Indians and residing among them, and their descendants

3)All persons residing among such Indians, whose parents on either side were or are Indians of that Tribe or Body

4) All persons adopted in infancy by such Indians, residing in the community, and their descendants

“This definition reflects the reality of our Nations and relationships,” said Grand Chief Settee. “It’s time to restore a framework that respects our kinship systems and ensures no one is left behind.”

While the Senate’s vote marks progress, MKO urges continued vigilance and advocacy to ensure that legislative reforms truly reflect the needs and rights of First Nations peoples.

Although the Senate committee voted in favour of the amendments, the bill must still move through several stages before it becomes law.

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