This week, MNBC had a delegation consisting of individuals from the Board of Directors, BCMANR, Chartered Communities, and staff, in Victoria. Following a meeting with the Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Murray Rankin, we were welcomed to the Legislature by Naomi Lebreton of the Songhees Nation. There was a large contingent of MLAs in attendance as we showcased Métis arts and artifacts, celebrated a large funding commitment by the Province of BC for skills training, and watched a terrific jigging and fiddle performance. Being able to expose political leaders to this level of culture was a historic moment for our Nation. Following this, the Province of BC proclaimed November 16, 2022, Louis Riel Day in BC. The week continued with more meetings, including: meeting with the Official Opposition Caucus; Deputy Minister of Health; Official Opposition Critic for Education, MCFD, and child care; senior technicians from the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and lastly, a meeting with the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. All in all, it was a successful week for MNBC in pushing forward priorities for our Nation.
