April 9, 2017

SIGNATURE OF THE PARTNERSHIP TREATY between the Council of the First Métis People of Canada and the Métis Tribe of the Rivière des Français. - Chiefs Karole Dumont & Gaétan Gauthier, signatories.

I had the honour of representing the Council in St. Charles, Ontario, and meeting many members of this Métis community. This was a very special day, not only because it was the 100th anniversary of Vimy Ridge, which allowed us to reflect and thank our Métis soldiers who sacrificed their lives and now rest in this distant land, but also because it represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream of bringing Metis organizations together to preserve our identity, our culture and our history. The rich mixed heritage we have received from our aboriginal and non-aboriginal ancestors is our most precious asset. It represents who we are as a people, and it is paramount that our own descendants continue to keep this legacy alive and vibrant. Together we will continue our efforts to maintain respect and recognition of our inherent rights as one of the three Aboriginal peoples of Canada under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. This treaty is the first of many the Council of the First Metis People of Canada (CFMPC) is currently negotiating with Metis organisations that trace their Indigenous roots in eastern Canada. (from the Maritimes to north-eastern Ontario)