Last week MNBC board members and staff attended the Federal Liberal Convention in Ottawa to further dialogue with key Members of Parliament and continue building a working relationship on our path toward reaching a self-governance agreement.
MNBC also hosted the only indigenous hospitality suite at the event. A space was created to invite MPs, officials, and key government staff to learn about MNBC and the initiatives it advocates for in a culturally welcoming space. The event was a huge success with over 200 people in attendance, all with a new familiarization of Métis in BC.
Another highlight of the trip was President Lissa Dawn Smith being able to speak with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau directly about the right of Métis people in BC. Additionally, Vice President Walter Mineault and Region 2 Director Louis De Jaeger were able to connect with the Minister of Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu, and Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Marc Miller.
As a whole, the week in Ottawa was an opportunity for MNBC to be seen and heard in Canada’s capital, bringing more awareness to important issues for Métis in BC. It is through advocacy like this that MNBC can provide a better future for its citizens, both today and for generations to come.
