A large part of northwestern Ontario has been officially identified by the province as a historic Metis community.
It comes following months of research by the government and the Metis Nation of Ontario to determine the presence of the Metis people around the Dryden, Kenora and Rainy River districts.
MNO President France Picotte says it’s an important and historic designation, noting it shows that the Metis people were established here at home before Canada as a country was formed.
Picotte says it will also help secure Metis rights for those living in the impacted area.
She notes the move is key as they prepare to sign a memorandum of understanding with the province and Canada.
The signing of that memorandum is expected to take place next month.
