Métis

Métis are one of three recognized  Aboriginal peoples in Canada, along with the Indians (or First Nations) and Inuit.

Approximately one third of all Aboriginal people in Canada identify themselves as Métis. Census data from 2006 shows Métis as the Aboriginal group that experienced the highest growth at 91%, reaching 389,785 people. 

Between 1996 and 2006, important political and legal milestones may have encouraged individuals to identify themselves as Métis.  The Métis received significant recognition in the final report of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples (1996) and in recent years they have won one important supreme court case related to the recognition of hunting rights (R. vs. Powely).

The Métis and Non-Status Indian Relations Directorate provides funding to support representative Métis, non-status Indian and off-reserve Aboriginal organizations, so they can better represent their constituents, become more accountable, develop partnerships and develop and train their personnel. In addition, the Federal Interlocutor is the Minister responsible for federal participation in tripartite negotiation processes between Métis or off-reserve Aboriginal organizations, provinces and the Federal Government.  These processes focus on discussing mutually agreeable priority issues.

You may also be interested in:

• Sec. 35 Constitution Act 1982
• Métis National Council­