Ontario Treaties Recognition Week: Honoring Promises and Métis Resilience in Treaty No. 3

November 7, 2024

Treaties Recognition Week provides an important opportunity to acknowledge the historical and ongoing significance of treaties in Ontario, agreements that are central to the relationship between Indigenous peoples and settler governments. These treaties affirm both inherent rights and stated promises made by the Crown to Indigenous communities, agreements that should be upheld with respect and integrity during this era of reconciliation.

For the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO), this week highlights an often-overlooked chapter in Ontario’s treaty history—the 1875 Halfbreed Adhesion to Treaty No. 3. Unique among Canadian treaties, this Adhesion represents the only instance where a Métis community, collectively known as the “Halfbreeds of Rainy Lake and River,” formally adhered to a historic treaty. Through this Adhesion, the Métis of Rainy Lake and River successfully secured recognition and protection of their lands and rights as a distinct Métis group, rather than as individuals, in the Fort Frances area of Northwestern Ontario.

However, this recognition was later undermined by the federal government’s policies, specifically with the introduction of the Indian Act in 1876. The Métis of Rainy Lake and River were ultimately forced into a false choice—either to be absorbed into the category of “Indians” under the Indian Act or to forgo the rights and benefits promised to them under their treaty. Many members chose to retain their Métis identity, despite these injustices and hardships, and their descendants continue to exist as a distinct Métis community represented by the MNO today.

“Our community’s historic inclusion within the Treaty No. 3 Adhesion and our ongoing pursuit of justice is a story of Métis resilience and unwavering identity,” says Theresa Stenlund, MNO Regional Councilor for the Northwestern Ontario Métis Community. “The promises made to the Métis of Rainy Lake and River reflected a recognition of our people and our rightful place. I invite all Ontarians to listen, learn, and stand with us in upholding the Crown’s honour and respecting our distinct Métis rights and history.”

The MNO stands committed to advancing reconciliation for the Northwestern Ontario Métis Community, and in 2017, Canada recognized this unique history through the MNO-Canada Agreement on Advancing Reconciliation with the Northwestern Ontario Métis Community. This agreement signifies a step towards justice and the realization of the promises made to the Métis of Rainy Lake and River over a century ago.

“We ask all Ontarians to join us in recognizing the Métis community’s unique place in Ontario’s treaty history and the need for reconciliation,” stated MNO President Margaret Froh. “Understanding the full scope of Ontario’s treaty relationships, including the unique, outstanding claims of the Métis of Rainy Lake and River, is essential to honoring the truth of these agreements.”

This Treaties Recognition Week, the MNO invites all Ontarians to deepen their understanding of Ontario’s treaties, including the promises and obligations set forth in the Halfbreed Adhesion to Treaty No. 3, so that we may work together toward lasting justice and reconciliation for all Métis peoples.

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