By Haley Grinder

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The B.C. government and the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) are making efforts to strengthen their relationship with the implementation of a new letter of intent, signed Oct. 27, 2021. The letter proposes a partnership between the Métis peoples and the province with respect to Métis self-determination.

“We recognize the importance of co-developing a strong relationship with Métis Nation British Columbia that respects the distinct culture, heritage and history of their over 20,000 registered citizens,” said Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation in a press release. “This new agreement envisages a more collaborative approach to initiatives and opportunities across government that we intend to set out in a new reconciliation agreement.”

This new relationship postdates the recent declaration of Truth and Reconciliation Day (more commonly known as Orange Shirt Day) on Sept. 30, where Canada began its long journey of reconciliation for Indigenous Peoples after the saddening discovery of the 215 children found buried at the site of the Kamloops Residential School earlier this year.

MNBC encompasses over 20,000 citizens identifying as Métis in B.C., while representing 39 Métis chartered communities. The creation of the letter of intent is a monumental occasion for Métis in B.C., marking a time of equal part collaboration between the parties at hand.

“This letter of intent to pursue a new reconciliation agreement formalizes a shared commitment to embark on a new relationship,” said Lissa Dawn Smith, acting president of MNBC, in the press release. “We look forward to working closely with the Government of B.C. on a distinctions-based approach to reconciliation that presents a clear path to self-determination. We are committed to closing the gap in the quality of life of Métis people throughout the province.”

The letter clarifies that the parties involved will continue its mission of recognition and reconciliation towards the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, Métis Peoples and Indigenous Peoples affected personally or intergenerationally by residential schools. Rankin and Smith respectively signed the letter on behalf of B.C. and MNBC.

For those interested in learning more about what the letter of intent entails, visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/consulting-with-first-nations/agreements/mnbc_-_letter_of_intent_-_october_27_2021_signed.pdf.