MNA Region 1 Executive Director Lise Rouleau
The Metis Nation of Alberta Region One office hosted their registry session on Thursday, last week, where they welcomed inquiries of around 20 individuals, confirmed MNA officials.
The registry session organized by the MNA Region One office is a part of creating a larger listing of Metis people in the region, and to help self-identified Metis people in the area who don't have their Metis cards by processing their card applications.
It is an essential part of identity and to be close to the community, explains an MNA official.
"It's really about being connected, about being who you are, and understanding your past, so we can be connected in the future and keep our children involved in the community," said MNA Region One Executive Director Lise Rouleau. "It's your tradition. Speaking to your elders. You are more likely to have stronger mental health. You know your foundation of who you are."
Being recognized as a member of Metis Nation of Alberta has a variety of benefits. These benefits range from Metis harvesting rights through the harvesting agreement between MNA and the provincial government to Metis Education Enhancement through organizations like Rupertsland Institute, and from business loan programs like the Apeetogosan Development Inc. to other specialized Metis supports and services.
Metis people were officially recognized as a nation by the federal government of Canada in 2017. The official recognition is a huge step for the Metis people as a nation, and has opened doors for a lot of opportunities for our people, says Rouleau.
"Now that we are recognized by the government, it's going to change everyone's viewpoint, and respect for the Metis as a nation, as a people, it's always been hard-fought for. Now that we are recognized, people can come out and be who they were meant to be, self identify, it doesn't mean that they have to be an MNA cardholder but, just being a Metis person, you can carry yourself with pride," she said.
For more information about the MNA Region One 2019 Registry Session, visit the original story on the POST's website at www.laclabichepost.com
