Surrey, BC – June 05, 2024 - Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) is calling for support from the public and policymakers to secure special governing status or recognition, alongside our pursuit of jurisdiction over our children in care. These recognitions are crucial for MNBC to effectively govern its own affairs, make decisions in the best interest of its children, build systems that reflect its values and needs, and advocate for the over 25,000 Métis citizens in British Columbia.
Dr. Kurtis Boyer, Research Chair of Métis Governance and Policy at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Saskatchewan, recently conducted an external governance review for MNBC. He emphasized the importance of strong governance for community well-being, stating, "Effective governance is the backbone of any thriving community, and the Métis Nation British Columbia is dedicated to refining its practices for the benefit of its citizens. This governance review focuses on identifying areas of success, as well as opportunities for improvement and innovation. As Chair in Métis Governance and Policy, I am proud to be able to support MNBC in strengthening its commitment to an open, effective, and citizen-driven system, that honours our Métis culture and values."
A Balanced Framework of Governance
MNBC has established a robust governance structure that integrates executive, legislative, and judicial branches. This framework is accountable to its Citizens and incorporates Métis traditions, ensuring a governance system that reflects the community's values and needs.
Limitations of Current Non-Profit Status
Despite these achievements, MNBC’s current status as a non-profit organization limits its capacity to provide essential services at the level of other governmental bodies. Enhanced recognition will enable MNBC to overcome these limitations and better serve its community.
Additionally, overcoming the limitations currently imposed on MNBC would help build capacity for the judicial arm of MNBC, the Senate.
Lissa Dawn Smith, President of Métis Nation BC, underscored the limitations imposed by the current non-profit status, saying, " Ensuring MNBC has jurisdiction over our children in care is essential for Métis Nation BC to fully exercise our right to self-determination and effectively govern our communities. Our current non-profit status restricts our access to necessary resources and funding, leaving many Métis citizens struggling to receive the support they need."
Addressing Unique Challenges
The Métis community in British Columbia faces distinct cultural, social, and economic challenges. Tailored governance solutions are essential to address these issues effectively and support the well-being of MNBC Citizens.
John Bieker, Chief Governance Officer of MNBC, highlighted the broader impact of such recognition: "We believe that securing a special governing status that recognizes MNBC as more than just a non-profit organization is not just a matter of administrative change but a necessary step towards ensuring equality and recognition for Métis Nation in British Columbia and the over 25,000 Citizens we serve."
A Call for Public and Policy Support
MNBC is urging the public and policymakers to support its pursuit of special governing status. This recognition will empower MNBC to deliver comprehensive services and advocate for the Métis community's needs more effectively.
The Affect on Métis Citizens
One of the most significant shortcomings of MNBC’s current status as a non-profit organization is its limited jurisdiction as a service provider. This limitation results in many Métis people becoming disconnected from their culture and families. The unfortunate reality of this situation is illustrated in the Opikinawasowin - Growing a Métis Child video below.