MMF Donates $70,000 to WRHM in Celebration of Métis 150

August 31, 2020

Winnipeg, MB - On Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at 1:00 p.m., the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) will be presenting a donation of $70,000 to the Winnipeg River Heritage Museum (WRHM) to help celebrate the 150th anniversary of Manitoba's joining Canada in Confederation.

This contribution is in addition to a previous commitment that supported the WRHM's capital project and operational expenses of the museum. This newest donation supports the WRHM over and above the required amount that they must contribute in order to receive the Building Sustainable Communities Program grant recently awarded by the Province of Manitoba.

"While visiting the museum I had the privilege to learn the local history, including the devastating impacts of flooding, caused by Manitoba Hydro, on the lives of Métis Nation Citizens and other residents who worked and lived in the area," states MMF President David Chartrand. "Sharing, understanding, and preserving history not only enriches the lives of those visitors, but investing in the tourism industry and other economic activities that benefit local economies is near and dear to our heart at the MMF."

"The Winnipeg River has a significant, and often unsung, place in the story of Manitoba. Its wild beauty, rich resources, and well-established travel route made the Winnipeg River a natural place for communities to put down roots," said Diane Dubé, Director and Curator of the WRHM. "The river was one of just a few major routes into what would eventually become Manitoba. This generous donation from the MMF will bring the WRHM's Regional Destination Attraction one step closer to becoming one of Canada's Heart Beats."

"Hardworking and dedicated volunteers are critical to the success of museums everywhere. We look forward to collaborating with the team at the WRHM to help develop permanent exhibits that showcase and educate visitors on the Métis people, our language and our artifacts," said MMF Minister of Culture and Heritage Alfred Anderson. "This donation provides an opportunity for the WRHM to expand on shareable exhibits and activities as we work on opening of the Métis Nation Heritage Centre."

"Protecting history and preserving the memory and experiences of our Ancestors is a part of what makes museums like the WRHM excellent investments that benefit all Manitobans," said Vice-President Denise Thomas. "Celebrating Métis 150 is the perfect opportunity to showcase and support the great work that continues to flourish in our province."

For more information on this announcement from the MMF and other initiatives, please visit www.mmf.mb.ca.

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Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis.

The Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) is the democratic self-governing political representative for the Métis Nation's Manitoba Métis Community. The Manitoba Métis Community is Canada's Partner in Confederation and the Founder of the Province of Manitoba.

For media information, please contact:
Marci Riel
Manitoba Metis Federation
Cell: 204-619-1228
Email: marci.riel@mmf.mb.ca
www.mmf.mb.ca

 


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