Historic Métis Communities

The summaries below were prepared collaboratively by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and the Government of Ontario. They are based on the historical research currently available on Métis in Ontario. Click here to view the historic research reports reviewed for the purposes of these summaries. It is important to note that these summaries are not comprehensive in scope rather they attempt to summarize some key facts and narratives on how historic Métis communities were identified in these areas.

Identifying historic Métis communities is a necessary part of the legal requirements for establishing Métis rights protected by s. 35 of The Constitution Act, 1982. The identification of historic Métis communities alone does not define contemporary rights-bearing Métis communities, or determine who in Ontario is Métis, or who holds Métis rights, nor does it define Métis harvesting areas or territories. The MNO and the Government of Ontario continue to work together on these issues.

It is also important to note that these summaries are based on existing historical research on Métis in Ontario. As such, the conclusions in these summaries do not limit the potential of other historic Métis communities being identified or the expansion or recognition of historic Métis communities in the future based on additional historic research. Both the MNO and the Government Ontario are committed to considering additional historic information as it becomes available. 

Summary Reports: