Photo of Clearwater Lake in Northern Manitoba
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For immediate release
May 12, 2020
Treaty Five Territory, Thompson, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Inc. is issuing this statement in recognition that the Province of Manitoba turns 150 years old today. Manitoba became Canada’s fifth province through The Manitoba Act, which became law on May 12, 1870.
“Although Manitoba has been a province for 150 years today, First Nations citizens have lived on these lands for time immemorial,” said Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “Today is a good day to recognize and honour our Cree, Dene, and Oji-Cree ancestors who were the original stewards of the beautiful land in Northern Manitoba.”
“First Nations people in Manitoba have survived many challenges, including being displaced from their traditional lands and living through the residential school system, the Sixties Scoop, and the foster care system. Despite the multiple and ongoing attempts to eliminate and assimilate our people, we persist. We commend the strength and resilience of the people who came before us and our community members today, who continue with their efforts to contribute and share their cultural knowledge and strengths with the Province of Manitoba. We encourage non-Indigenous Manitoba citizens to learn more about our rich culture and our shared history as we work to build an even better province by creating stronger relationships and partnerships,” shared Grand Chief Settee. “Today it is essential to recognize the contributions of the First Nations people from Treaty Four, Five, Six, and Ten territories, who contribute to the vibrancy of the Province of Manitoba, the place we call home.”
