Press Release – August 22, 2024
Fort Chipewyan, Alberta – On Saturday, at the Annual General Meeting, the Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation proudly asserted our inherent right to self-government. Vice President Barb Hermanson stood firm on behalf of our Nation, emphasizing the importance of open and transparent communication and the recognition of our unique status as an isolated community.
“Our Nation has long held the right to self-governance, as supported by Section 35 of the Constitution Act of 1982 and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” stated Vice President Hermanson. “We have historically fended for ourselves, building our capacity and establishing our government without assistance from the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA). It is crucial to emphasize that no other faction has the authority to represent us in the exercise of our Section 35 Métis Indigenous rights.”
The Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation formally proposes a government-to-government meeting with the MNA within 60 days. This meeting aims to discuss the critical assertion of our rights and the continued pursuit of self-determination. Furthermore, we extend our support to other Métis communities interested in similar discussions.
It is of utmost concern that the MNA’s current processes do not leave space for Métis Nations to determine their self-governance independently. We stand firm against any actions that undermine our sovereignty and will not be intimidated by any attempts to silence our voice.
The Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation remains committed to protecting our rights and ensuring that our community’s voice is heard and respected. We look forward to working collaboratively with all parties who respect our rights to self-governance and self-determination.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Carmen Wells
Lands and Regulatory Director
Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation
carmen.wells@fortchipmetis.ca
CC Jason McEvoy CEO, Fort Chipewyan Métis Board of Directors, Fort Chipewyan Métis