As we gather during the Christmas season and welcome the New Year, we take time to reflect with gratitude on the strength of Métis culture, community, and family. This season reminds us of the importance of sharing, kindness, and caring for one another—values passed down through generations.
With no allotted funds and limited recognition, we are continuing to fight and making gains in which we can all be proud. Since COVID, we have struggled to get our legs back under us but thanks to the passion of some of our members who were willing to step forward and sit in board positions, we are standing again! A bit wobbly but on our feet.
The relationship between First Nations and Metis holds precedence over our relationship with Canada. There has been much damage inflicted on this relationship by others. We have been in constant discussion with First Nations Chiefs, Elders and Traditional Leaders. I am optimistic that through new relationships forged and continued dialog, we can begin to find the reconciliation so desperately needed between our peoples.
The MFC board has been having some modest budget discussions for our members consideration. As you are aware, running this association includes many expenses that can’t be covered with the new member application fees we charge. It is not fair for board members to pay out of pocket for expenses and have to wait months for reimbursement. For this reason, we will be instituting annual membership fees starting in 2026. While we will wait and see the response from the membership, the board is in discussion to use the funds for day to day operational expenses like the website, hardware/software, office expenses, etc. We have also discussed allocating a portion for larger initiatives like legal consultations, community research, cultural events, youth/elder council initiatives, and scholarships for post secondary education. We humbly ask that you consider these annual fees so the board can carry out a mandate as set by the membership. We hope to have the registrations back open in the coming weeks so please watch your in box for an email notification.
In closing, may this holiday season bring warmth to your homes, peace to your hearts, and time to reconnect with loved ones. As the New Year begins, we look ahead with hope, guided by the teachings of our ancestors and the resilience of the Métis People.
We wish everyone a safe, healthy, and joyful Christmas, and a New Year filled with opportunity, unity, and renewed strength.
Board of Directors,
Metis Federation of Canada.
