Manitoba Métis Federation and Government of Canada announce investment of over $14.5 million for the Red River Métis

July 4, 2023

Winnipeg, MB, in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis - Today, the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the National Government of the Red River Métis, and the Government of Canada announced an investment of over $14.5 million into Red River Métis economic development, heritage preservation, food security and agricultural sustainability.

The announcement was made by MMF President David Chartrand and the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Member of Parliament for Saint Boniface-Saint Vital.

From the total dollar amount announced, funding will be allocated to the following activities:

Métis Economic and Community Development (MECD) - With $4 million in funding from the PrairiesCan Community Economic Development and Diversification (CEDD) fund and $2 million provided by the MMF, MECD will address major gaps in distinction-based services, and support greater participation of Red River Métis in the economy. MECD will deliver distinct, results-driven and location-based Red River Métis economic and community development activities, including business advisory services, community engagement activities, sectoral expertise, and pathfinding opportunities for Red River Métis businesses and entrepreneurs.

Red River Métis National Heritage Centre - With an investment of $980,000 from the PrairiesCan Tourism Relief Fund, the MMF will continue to develop and promote the Red River Métis National Heritage Centre (RRMNH) at Portage and Main in downtown Winnipeg, the heart of the Red River Métis Homeland. This investment will support new visitor exhibits, as well as digital displays and installations on the exterior façade of the building. Once completed in 2026, the RRMNHC is expected to attract over 25,000 visitors annually.

Sustainable farming practices - With $7.2 million from the Agriculture Climate Solutions - On-Farm Climate Action Fund, the Manitoba Métis Federation will provide Red River Métis farmers, ranchers and producers direct financial support to adopt sustainable farming practices that help build climate change resilience, support carbon sequestration, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The funding will also allow the MMF to offer specialized agriculture consultants to help with planning, data collection, implementing, and reporting of results. Additionally, with plans to deliver peer-to-peer learning opportunities between Elders, Traditional Knowledge Holders and Red River Métis producers, it is expected that the level of adoption of these practices will increase greatly.

Addressing food insecurity - An investment of $500,000 through the fourth phase of the Local Food Infrastructure Fund (LFIF), will support enhanced distribution of healthy food across Manitoba Métis Federation regions and through our proud affiliate, Infinity Women Secretariat. Activities include the purchase of a refrigerated trailer, as well as greenhouses, grow domes, edible forests, pollinator gardens and raised garden beds.

Quotes:

"We are pleased to have a strong partnership in reconciliation with Canada. Our people have long been stewards of the land, and our history demonstrates that we are highly capable of balancing this important task with building on our strength as an economic powerhouse. These priorities must be addressed holistically so we can ensure the long-term well-being of our Citizens and our Homeland. Sustainable farming practices and strong food security measures, as well as investments in honouring our history and building on the economic advancement of our Nation allow us to create a powerful legacy for future generations, while generating tremendous opportunity for our Citizens today."

- David Chartrand, LL. D (Hon), O.M., President, Manitoba Métis Federation and Minister, Economic Development

"Canada's ongoing partnership with the Manitoba Métis Federation is an important step along the shared path of reconciliation. The creation of the new Red River Métis National Heritage Centre and the Métis Economic and Community Development Initiative will help the Métis people to tell their story, deliver on economic development opportunities, and help strengthen the MMF's cultural and economic network. Our government will continue to be a strong partner in growing an economy that works for everyone. Indigenous communities need equal access to tools for the adoption of sustainable farming practices and to help meet the needs of people experiencing food insecurity. With support through the On-Farm Climate Action Fund, the Manitoba Métis Federation will deliver funds directly to local farmers who are ready to take action and build climate resilience. In addition, funding through the Local Food Infrastructure Fund serves to strengthen and support the local food system for the Red River Métis over the long term."

- The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Member of Parliament for Saint Boniface-Saint Vital

 

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Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis.

The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) is the democratically elected National Government of the Red River Métis, also known as the Manitoba Métis, the origin and core of the historic Métis Nation. The Red River Métis are a distinct Indigenous People and Canada's Negotiating Partners in Confederation and the Founders of the Province of Manitoba.

 

For more information, media may contact:
Kat Patenaude
Media Relations Advisor
Manitoba Métis Federation
204-801-7710
Kat.Patenaude@mmf.mb.ca

 

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