Statement from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government on Île-à-la-Crosse Boarding School Survivors Agreement with the Federal Government and Métis Nation – Saskatchewan Victory at the Supreme Court of Canada

Mar 05, 2025

The Otipemisiwak Métis Government stands in solidarity with the Survivors of the Île-à-la-Crosse boarding school who have reached a historic Agreement-in-Principle with the Government of Canada. This agreement, which includes a $27 million compensation package, and an additional $10 million for a community fund, is an important step forward in addressing the wrongs inflicted upon Métis children at the school in Saskatchewan from 1860 to 1976.

The Survivors of Île-à-la-Crosse have a painful legacy of cultural loss, physical and emotional abuse, and the lasting impact of being taken from their families. While this agreement is a critical milestone, it is only one part of the healing journey that must continue. This compensation represents not just financial restitution, but a formal acknowledgment of the harm caused to individuals, families, and communities over generations.

The immense courage demonstrated by the Survivors, their families, and their communities in seeking justice and advocating for recognition cannot be understated.

The Otipemisiwak Métis Government will always support Survivors, and we call on the Government of Canada to continue to honour its responsibilities towards all Indigenous Peoples in the ongoing effort to heal from the devastating impacts of residential and day schools across this country.

This is a time for reflection, healing, and hope, and the Otipemisiwak Métis Government will continue to advocate for the needs and well-being of Métis communities affected by the legacy of residential schools.

The Otipemisiwak Métis Government also wants to highlight a victory for all Métis people in Canada before the Supreme Court, with a recent decision being delivered in respect to ensuring that Métis in Saskatchewan are consulted with respect to government decisions that impact Métis rights. Our Métis government was pleased to intervene in support of the Métis Nation – Saskatchewan before the Supreme Court of Canada and applaud their leadership and citizens for standing up for Métis rights. The successes of all neighbouring Métis governments before the Courts, serve to benefit the entire Métis Nation across the Homeland.

A copy of the summary is available at https://decisions.scc-csc.ca/scc-csc/scc-csc/en/item/20869/index.do

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