The Métis Federation of Canada (MFC) Joins the AAMS
Joseph Jacquard, AAMS, Robert Pilon, MFC
With roots running deep from the first French explorers who arrived in Mi’kmaw territory in the very early 1600’s, the AAMS is constituted to represent the interest and well-being of the Acadien-Métis people, ensuring the continuity of their culture and identity.
Over the past couple months we have had numerous conversations with representatives of the AAMS, finding that we have very similar objectives, with both organizations committed towards pursuing the interests and rights of Métis communities. We were therefore very pleased, and humbled, when we heard from Joseph Jacquard, the President of the AAMS, that he would be coming to Oshawa on June 21st to sign a treaty with the MFC on behalf of his organization.
Over the past couple months we have had numerous conversations with representatives of the AAMS, finding that we have very similar objectives, with both organizations committed towards pursuing the interests and rights of Métis communities. We were therefore very pleased, and humbled, when we heard from Joseph Jacquard, the President of the AAMS, that he would be coming to Oshawa on June 21st to sign a treaty with the MFC on behalf of his organization.
After spending the day meeting with many Métis from in and around Oshawa, we gathered to share a meal together, share stories, and is often the case, look for family connections. After a smudging ceremony, the evening continued with comments from myself and other members of the MFC – Helene Savard and Archie Martin – and finally from Joseph Jacquard who spoke of how important this treaty was to his community. Finally we signed the treaty and a new partnership was formed between the Association des Acadiens-Métis Souriquois and the Métis Federation of Canada.
This was a particularly momentous occasion as we now have established partnerships from coast to coast. With treaties signed with the Communauté Métis Autochtone de Maniwaki from Quebec, and now the Association des Acadiens-Métis Souriquois, as well as a Memorandum of Understanding with the BC Métis Federation, the MFC is building strong bridges with organizations that have shared interests and a common commitment towards ensuring Métis from all parts of Canada are properly recognized and represented.
As happy as we are with the alliances now in place, the work has just begun. By continuing to focus on building partnerships with Métis organizations all across this country, we will only grow stronger and more effective in representing and supporting Métis culture, identity and rights. As stated before, I would personally like to speak to anyone – whether from a Métis organization or community, or an individual - who has questions, would like to discuss mutual priorities, and is interested in finding a way to work together towards our common goals. There is much work to be done, but together I believe we can be successful in progressing Métis priorities – from coast to coast to coast.
Robert Pilon Interim President
Phone: 905-725-1635
Cell: 905-409-5843
Email: wpilon5188@rogers.com or rob.pilon57@gmail.com
This was a particularly momentous occasion as we now have established partnerships from coast to coast. With treaties signed with the Communauté Métis Autochtone de Maniwaki from Quebec, and now the Association des Acadiens-Métis Souriquois, as well as a Memorandum of Understanding with the BC Métis Federation, the MFC is building strong bridges with organizations that have shared interests and a common commitment towards ensuring Métis from all parts of Canada are properly recognized and represented.
As happy as we are with the alliances now in place, the work has just begun. By continuing to focus on building partnerships with Métis organizations all across this country, we will only grow stronger and more effective in representing and supporting Métis culture, identity and rights. As stated before, I would personally like to speak to anyone – whether from a Métis organization or community, or an individual - who has questions, would like to discuss mutual priorities, and is interested in finding a way to work together towards our common goals. There is much work to be done, but together I believe we can be successful in progressing Métis priorities – from coast to coast to coast.
Robert Pilon Interim President
Phone: 905-725-1635
Cell: 905-409-5843
Email: wpilon5188@rogers.com or rob.pilon57@gmail.com
