Powley Case
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Today's Métis Warrior -- A Hero-- Steve Powley
by Gary Lipinski -- It is ironic that a man who valued his
privacy so much would become one of the most known and respected
individuals within the Métis Nation. Steve then is no ordinary man.
I have had the pleasure and honor of knowing Steve and his family
for the past ten years. The work and sacrifice that Steve has undertaken
cannot be stated in such short venues as this. Steve stood up and
took a stand against a great injustice being done on the Métis.
The struggle began in 1993 / 94 that would take some ten years and
ultimately end up with a Supreme Court of Canada victory for Steve
and Rod, along with the entire Métis Nation. On September 19, 2003
as a result of Steve standing up for his rights the Métis were recognized
as having equal harvesting rights as those enjoyed by other Aboriginal
Peoples within Canada. Steve won his right to hunt, and so did the
rest of the Métis Nation.
The way in which Steve fought this battle also has to be recognized,
along with the tremendous burden that accompanied it. While often
people only think of the glorious moments, there were indeed days
filled with worry, knowing what the consequences would be if the
decision was not positive. Likewise, as I am sure we can all appreciate,
not all Canadians are supportive of Aboriginal Rights and Métis
Rights. By Steve being the man who’s name was associated with
this cause, he no doubt bore the brunt of those individuals negativity.
Through his actions, I consider Steve to be a fine example of a
modern day Métis Warrior, a Veteran, who has fought a long battle
for and on behalf of his people, and won. Steve through his ten-year
battle to the Supreme Court always saw the importance of Community
and the Métis Nation. He consulted and was consulted regularly to
make sure actions being taken would be consistent with the broader
aspirations of the Métis Nation. Steve, as a Modern day Warrior
defended his Nation, not through violence, but rather with the law,
Nation support and persistence.
It was not enough for Steve to be carrying the burden of court challenges
on his shoulder, but following the Ontario Court Of Appeal decision
in February of 2001, Steve graciously accepted a request to join
MNO’s Provincial Negotiations team in Negotiations with the
Ontario Government (MNR) on how to adjust their regulator scheme
to recognize the Métis Right To Hunt. Steve remained a member of
that team.
Although a private man, Steve would and did give so much of himself.
Each time I was in the vicinity of Sault Ste. Marie, there would
be an invitation extended to join him and his family in the best
home cooked meal in the territory. Steve, his wife Brenda and their
entire family are wonderful people, who in my times of doubt gave
me additional strength to go on knowing that what each person contributes,
has a cumulative effect.
Steve, you have given us so much, you asked for nothing and left
a legacy. Although you have gone to a higher level with the Creator
and your presence will be missed, you will be with us in many ways
for a long, long time.
Our Friend and Colleague, Steve Powley.
Gary Lipinski
Chair, Métis Nation of Ontario
Deputy Captain of the Hunt and Chief Negotiator
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