Statement For Immediate Release
Surrey, BC—Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) is deeply disappointed to have to make the decision to not attend the Métis Summit on the Building Canada Act on August 7, 2025.
The decision is based on the absence of full participation in the Summit as MNBC was invited as an online observer only. To deny a signatory to the Canada-Métis Nation Accord a seat at the table is a disappointing step backwards in our relationship with the federal government.
MNBC represents and advocates on behalf of 30,000 registered Métis Citizens and 113,000 self-identified Métis in B.C. We inherently hold Section 35 Rights under the Constitution. Furthermore in 2018, MNBC signed a government-to-government Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which represented a joint commitment to reconciliation and strengthening our nation-to-nation and government to government relationship.
“MNBC has committed to collaborating with Canada to address challenges, seize opportunities and uphold the priorities that impact Métis people in BC through meaningful agreements", said Walter Mineault, President MNBC. “Failing to honour the commitments made to reconciliation not only undermines trust but is disrespectful to our people in our pursuit for justice, dignity and recognition.”
The Métis Summit on the Building Canada Act is about Bill C-5 and economic development. Our people are economically-driven. We are Canadian citizens. We pay taxes. Over 500 Métis-owned businesses in B.C. contribute a significant impact to the Canadian economy. We deserve to be heard, not left behind.
As Canada faces tariffs and economic challenges, Prime Minister Carney is asking us to come together as one Canadian economy. How can we do that if certain voices are being silenced? Real partnership means consistent inclusion, not opportunistic exclusion that undermines meaningful dialogue and true collaboration.
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Walter Mineault - President, Métis Nation British Columbia
About Métis Nation British Columbia
Métis Nation British Columbia represents the section 35 rights of approximately 30,000 Métis Citizens who are registered with MNBC and advocates for the over 113,000 self-identified Métis in British Columbia. MNBC represents thirty-nine (39) Métis Chartered Communities in British Columbia. MNBC’s mandate is to develop and enhance opportunities for Métis communities by implementing culturally relevant social and economic programs and services. MNBC is recognized by the Government of British Columbia, and the Government of Canada. MNBC is the government for Métis in BC.
For more information, please contact media@mnbc.ca.