How do I get my Metis Citizenship?
Metis Citizenship Application packages are available through the Metis Nation of British Columbia (MNBC) website or through the link provided: https://www.mnbc.ca/citizens-culture/apply-citizenship/i-want-apply
MNBC can support individuals through the application process and answer any questions that may arise.
Please email completed applications to citizenship@mnbc.ca
Applications will be processed approximately 36 weeks from when the completed application is received.
There is a computer available at Mamawapowin’s Early Years Center, located at 1580 Bernard Avenue for community members to use to submit their citizenship applications and renewals.
How do I renew my Metis Citizenship Card?
The first thing to check is to make sure the Metis Citizen Card is Metis Nation BC. There have been other Metis associations that have issued cards over the past years which are no longer recognized.
To renew your Metis Citizenship Card please visit Metis Nations of British Columbia’s website at https://www.mnbc.ca/form/renew-or-replace-card and fill out the online application forms. Renewals are only available to those whose cards have expired.
MNBC citizenship renewal cards will be sent out approximately 12-14 weeks from when the completed renewal forms have been completed. There is a computer available at Mamawapowin Early Years Center, located at 1580 Bernard Avenue for community members to use to submit their citizenship applications and renewals.
If you do not have a computer or need help completing the online form a computer has been set up at Mamawapowin Early Years Centre for citizenship applications and renewals.
How do I access Metis Community Services resources?
The first step in accessing services is to complete the intake process by going onto Metis Community Services website, pressing the “Request Services” button and completing the form. Metis Community Services will contact you to set up an intake meeting to provide you with information on what programs and services are available and make referrals to services that can help support you and your family.
Is there a cost associated to the services/programs Metis Community Services provides ?
As a not-for-profit organization Metis Community Services provides free services to the community through government and non-government funding and community donations. Our goal is to provide low barrier, holistic services and supports to promote health and wellbeing among the Metis community.
How do I make an appointment?
By completing the “Request Services” form on Metis Community Services website a staff member will contact you to arrange an appointment to complete an intake.
What services are offered through Metis Community Services of British Columbia?
Metis Community Services of British Columbia offers a variety of holistic services and supports for children and adults of all ages that promote health and wellbeing among the Metis community. Below is a list of the services offered. For more details on each of our services page.
What are Metis rights?
Metis rights refer to the rights and interests of Metis people often including land and resource use, self governance, and protection of cultural heritage. Metis communities have been fighting for their inherent rights to be recognized and affirmed for generations. These rights are now protected under the Canadian Constitution and various legal agreements, acknowledging the distinct identity and historic contributions of Metis people.
What is the definition of what it means to be Metis?
Metis people are one of three recognized Indigenous groups in Canada, the others being First Nations and Inuit. Metis refers to individuals of mixed European and Indigenous descent throughout Canada. The term as defined by the Metis National Council includes those who self-identify, are of historic Metis Nation Ancestry, are distinct from other Indigenous groups and are accepted by the Metis Nation. Metis comes from the Latin term Miscere which means to mix. Metis people have a rich history of land-based tradition and culture.
What does self-identification mean?
The individual must self-identify as a member of a Metis community. It is not enough to self-identify as Metis, but that identification must have an ongoing connection to a historic Metis community.
What is considered Historic Metis Nation Homeland?
Historic Metis Homeland can be traced back to the fur trade routes where Metis communities resided and practiced land-based culture and tradition. The lands include rivers, lakes, mountains, hills, valleys, and prairies. They span over many provinces and territories including Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Northwest Ontario, Northeast British Columbia and Southern Northwest Territories, Northern Manitoba, and North Dakota. Many Metis communities continue to reside along the fur trade routes across Metis Nation Homeland.
What is ancestral historical proof?
Evidence of an ancestor who received a land grant or a scrip granted under the Manitoba Act or the Dominion Lands Act, or who was recognized as Metis in other government, church, or community records. There is no “blood quantum” requirement, but Metis rights holders must have proof of ancestral connection to a historic Metis community.