December 4, 2020 – When it comes to the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) in Canada, Métis Nation – Saskatchewan (MN–S) citizens are making their priorities clear.

UNDRIP recognizes the individual and collective rights of Indigenous Peoples globally and sets the minimum standard for the recognition of those rights by all Governments  including the right to self-determination. The adoption of this international document will impact the lives of Métis citizens now and for generations to come.  The Federal Government this week, introduced legislation that will lead to the implementation of the UNDRIP into Canadian law.  Canada has reached out to Indigenous communities for input and MN–S is subsequently reaching out to ensure our Citizens’ voices are heard.

For information and discussion, we present the following documents:

• A copy of UNDRIP is here.
• A backgrounder on UNDRIP is here.
• Government of Canada Implementing UNDRIP here.
• The proposed Federal Legislation is here.
• Preliminary response from MN–S is here.
• Complete response from MN–S will follow.
• A slide presentation on UNDRIP is here.

There is still time to provide input on this important initiative that will have a very real impact on our lives, our communities and our Métis rights under s. 35 of the Canadian Constitution. If you would like to provide feedback, please email us at undrip@mns.work.

During virtual information and feedback sessions on November 7th and 9th, 2020, Métis Nation – Saskatchewan citizens provided spirited dialogue and responses to four discussion questions posed by moderator Marilyn Poitras.  Recurring themes emerged during the two sessions, including:

• The need for clear, concise communication throughout the implementation process
• The need for public education to include children and youth
• The need for all implementation processes to be accountable to Canada’s Indigenous Peoples
• The need for a clearly defined plan and road map of Canada’s process to implement UNDRIP
• The need for capacity to ensure the MN-S can participate in the implementation process
• The need to consider future impacts on the health and well-being of MN-S citizens, the Metis and all Canadian Indigenous peoples
• The need for MN-S to take the lead role in the implementation of UNDRIP in partnership with the Federal Government

A summary from the discussions on November 7th and 9th is available here.

MN-S will continue to inform citizens of any new developments as they pertain to the UNDRIP.

If you would like to provide further feedback on UNDRIP, please email us at undrip@mns.work.