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- calendar_today November 8, 2026
Concern Raised by Métis Leadership on Federal Budget
Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) President David Chartrand has criticized the 2026 federal budget for its lack of dedicated funding for Métis communities. Chartrand described himself as “appalled” by the absence of distinction-based investments, highlighting the ongoing challenges Métis communities face in securing targeted support from the federal government.
Minimal Mention of Métis in Budget
The word “Métis” appears only once in the 2026 budget document, specifically in the context of funding to implement An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families. According to the MMF, the federal government has stated that it currently lacks a mechanism to directly fund Métis under this legislation. Chartrand expressed disappointment given the longstanding advocacy efforts since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s era to ensure recognition and dedicated investments for Métis people. He emphasized that measurable outcomes require distinction-based language and funding, warning that Métis priorities risk being lost under broader “Indigenous” funding envelopes.
Ongoing Discussions with Federal Government
Chartrand reported ongoing talks with Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty and other federal officials. The discussions aim to introduce Métis-specific language and investments into the budget framework. Chartrand argued that specificity is necessary to enable accurate measurement and accountability, noting that generalized funding categories obscure the actual impact on Métis communities.
Métis National Council Voices Disappointment
The Métis National Council (MNC) also expressed disappointment with the budget through a public statement. The MNC had recommended, in its pre-budget submission, the renewal of the Canada-Métis Nation Housing Sub-Accord, enhanced urban and youth programming led by Métis, health infrastructure improvements, and expanded Métis-specific opportunities in education and workforce development. MNC President Victoria Pruden stated that despite government commitments to Indigenous Peoples and economic reconciliation, Métis governments feel sidelined and not treated as equal partners.
Contrasting Responses from Other Indigenous Organizations
While Métis leaders voiced their concerns, other Indigenous organizations responded positively to specific budget allocations for their constituencies. Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak welcomed stable and predictable funding, including $32 billion over 10 years for First Nations housing and infrastructure and $18 billion for child and family services, education, and health. Woodhouse Nepinak commended federal leaders for providing this long-term commitment.
The Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) was satisfied with the budget’s promise of $575 million over five years for Pirutsiagutiit, an Inuit-specific replacement for the Inuit Child First Initiative. ITK President Natan Obed called the program promising for Inuit children and anticipated ongoing collaboration. Nevertheless, ITK criticized the budget for lacking specific action on Nutrition North Canada, homelessness in Inuit Nunangat, and Inuit housing and infrastructure.
Summary
The release of the 2026 federal budget has drawn mixed reactions from Indigenous leaders. While Métis representatives highlight the ongoing lack of distinction-based funding, other groups acknowledge significant new investments. Dialogue between Métis organizations and the federal government continues as calls grow for more targeted support addressing the unique needs of Métis communities.
Related coverage
Source: cbc.ca.
