Métis Women Mission Statement

Organized since 1995, the Métis Women's Circle is a charitable organization supported by the generous volunteering spirit of our members.

The Circle is autonomous, self-governing and consensual in its decision making approach.

We work to build community amongst urbanized Aboriginal women and their families locally and nationally. Our research projects are far ranging and deal with those social issues impaction Aboriginal women in particular.

Our Goals

To assist Métis individuals and families who are trapped in the cycle of poverty.

To provide training and education to Métis people.

To preserve and perpetuate the traditions and culture of the Métis people.

To build partnerships and networks with the Aboriginal organization in the broader community.

Who are the Métis?

The Métis are defined in Section 35(2) of The Constitution Act, 1982-"In this Act, 'Aboriginal peoples of Canada' includes the Indian, Inuit and Métis peoples of Canada."

The legal recognition of the Métis in 1982 confirmed to the rest of Canada what the Métis have always known. That is, the Métis perceived themselves as Aboriginal people that were and continue to be, distinct from the other Aboriginal groups.

The Métis are a distinct nation of Aboriginal people with a unique, colourful, and valuable history and culture. Métis are primarily located in the Prairie Provinces, but are also present in Ontario, British Columbia and Northwest Territories and small numbers in eastern Canada. While census date has traditionally under counted the Métis, it is estimated that approximately 200,000 individuals continue to self-identify with the historic Métis Nation today.