The Government of Canada is committed to supporting First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in their efforts to reclaim, revitalize, maintain, and strengthen their languages.
Today, Taleeb Noormohamed, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced an investment totalling more than $15.3 million over five years starting in 2023-2024, to the Manitoba Métis Federation to support the revitalization efforts of the Michif language. Taleeb Noormohamed made the announcement on behalf of Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage.
This contribution is part of the new jointly developed funding models introduced in 2023-2024, as part of the Government's ongoing efforts to work collaboratively with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples to fully implement the Indigenous Languages Act. The new Indigenous language funding model was specifically designed to provide greater First Nations, Inuit and Métis control over funding decisions, establish long-term funding agreements, and better respond to the unique needs of their communities. This approach aligns with the Indigenous Languages Act, which recognizes that First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples are best positioned to lead the reclamation, revitalization, maintenance, and strengthening of their languages.
This new approach directly allocates the funds to the Manitoba Métis Federation, allowing them to implement a language strategy that addresses their unique priorities and redistribute resources to Red River Métis organizations and community groups.
These investments and this funding model represent important steps forward in supporting the Manitoba Métis Federation's commitment to take charge of their own linguistic revitalization efforts, enabling them to honour and preserve their rich heritage..
