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Métis Nation of Alberta begins consultation on self-government

Last Updated Feb 17, 2021 at 10:06 am MDT

PHOTO. The McMurray Métis, members of RMWB Council, and the government of Alberta at the groundbreaking ceremony for the McMurray Métis Cultural Centre on Sept. 2, 2020. MYMCMURRAY/Phil Wood

FORT MCMURRAY (660 NEWS) — The Metis Nation of Alberta is beginning its province-wide consultation on a self-government Constitution.

Established in 1928, the MNA promotes and facilitates the advancement of Métis people in Alberta through self-reliance, self-determination, and self-management.

According to a news release, the Métis Nation of Alberta is consulting with its citizens on a draft Constitution, that will modernize its approach to self-government.

After signing the Métis government recognition and self-government agreement in June of 2019, MNA President Audrey Poitras says “the next step on our path to federally recognized self-determination is to consult with our citizens on the draft Constitution prepared by the Commission.”

Poitras says once all feedback is considered, the MNA will hold an assembly for citizens to review a final draft of the Constitution.

If approved, the MNA will hold a province-wide ratification process that will respect Métis customs, practices, and traditions.

The commission is holding several roundtables with existing MNA structures including elders, youth, women, and community members from each of the six MNA regions.