Contributions of Métis People To Ontario Celebrated

Ontario is recognizing 2010 as the Year of the Métis.

From MétisNation.org

The proclamation by the Ontario Legislature recognizes the unique history and ways of life of the Métis people, and their contributions to Ontario – past, present and future. 

From MétisNation.org

The year 2010 marks the 125th anniversary of the end of the Northwest Rebellion in Saskatchewan and the death of Louis Riel in 1885. Riel and the ongoing contributions of Métis people in Ontario are recognized on November 16, Louis Riel Day, every year.

QUICK FACTS

• There are about 73,000 Métis people in Ontario – about 30 per cent of the total Aboriginal population in Ontario. The Métis are the fastest growing of any segment of the Ontario population today (2006 Census).
• The Métis Nation of Ontario represents the majority of Métis in Ontario through a province-wide governance structure that includes Community Councils and the Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario.
• In November 2008 the Ontario Government and the Métis Nation of Ontario signed a Framework Agreement which recognizes the unique history,  identity, and rights of Métis communities in Ontario. It sets out a collaborative process for the parties to work together to build stronger Métis people, families and communities.

LEARN MORE

• Learn more about the history of the Métis in Ontario.
• Find out about Riel and the Northwest Rebellion.
• Read more about Ontario’s relationship with the Métis Nation of Ontario.
  

“The Métis Nation of Ontario is proud of the historic and ongoing contributions of the Métis people to Ontario and Canada. As one of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada, the Métis Nation has faced many obstacles and challenges over the generations to protect our unique language, culture and way of life, but our people have always persevered. Proclaiming 2010 as the “Year of the Métis” in Ontario demonstrates we are truly moving into a new era of recognition, respect and reconciliation in this province we call home. On behalf of the Métis Nation, I want to thank the Ontario Government for making this proclamation a reality.” Gary Lipinski, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario The Métis in Ontario were a vital part of the economy of early Ontario. The Métis, their families and the communities they built were instrumental in the fur trade, as well as other parts of the economy, such as forestry and fishing. “The Métis built a new culture, taking the traditions of First Nations people and early European traders and creating something unique. They are a symbol of the strength found not only in valuing differences, but in celebrating them.” said Chris Bentley, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.