Who Are Metis? It takes more than proving a genealogical
connection to a historic Métis community and then joining a Métis
organization to claim section 35 rights. One must have a "past and
ongoing" relationship to a Métis community. The Court identified three
main factors by which to identify Métis rights-holders:
self-identification, ancestral connection to the historic Métis
community, and community acceptance:
- Self-identification - in addition to self-identifying as a member
of a Métis community, identification must have an ongoing connection to
a historic Métis community;
- Ancestral Connection - There is no minimum
"blood quantum" requirement. However, Métis rights-holders must have
some proof of ancestral connection to the historic Métis community whose
collective rights they are exercising. The Court said the "ancestral
connection" is by birth, adoption or other means;
- Community Acceptance -
there must be documented proof of acceptance by a contemporary Métis
community or organization. For example, if membership to a Métis
political organization is used as proof, then that organization's
membership requirements and their role in the Métis community will be
put into evidence. Evidence must be "objectively verifiable" — meaning
there must be documented proof and a fair process for community
acceptance. Evidence may also include participation in Métis community
activities and obtaining testimony from known Métis community members.
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Metis Association of Alberta
(1932)
Ewing Commission (1934-1936)
The Metis Betterment Act (1938)
The Alberta Federation of Metis Settlements Formed (1973)
MacEwan Joint Metis-Government Committee (1982-1984)
Resolution 18 Incorporated (1985)
Metis Settlements Accord Adopted (1989)
Metis Settlements General Council
Metis Rights: Regina vs. Powley
Who Are Metis?
Harvesting Rights for Alberta's Metis |