2024-25 Reporting on the Calls for Justice: 17.1 - 17.29: Métis Specific Calls

In 2024–25, Statistics Canada advanced the expansion of the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey to capture the Indigenous and racialized identity of both victims and accused individuals in police-reported crime data. Informed by broad engagement with police services, Indigenous and racialized communities, academic researchers, and advocacy groups, Statistics Canada introduced a revised version of the UCR Survey in February 2024.

Alongside technical updates, Statistics Canada collaborated with a special-purpose committee under the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police—comprised of over 40 police agencies—to develop an Operational Guidelines document for supporting police services in the collection and use of the identity data collection across jurisdictions. These guidelines aim to support ethical, standardized practices for police services in collecting demographic information, and are intended to be published on the StatCan website in July 2025.

Moreover, Statistics Canada finalized the following two other, accompanying reports in 2024-25: (1) a What We Heard Report on the results of the Phase 2 engagements by Statistics Canada (Release date: May 26th, 2025); and (2) An Analytical framework promoting the ethical and responsible use, analysis and dissemination of the data (Release date July 16th, 2025).

Statistics Canada also updated the Crime and Justice Statistics Hub in July 2023 to include a dedicated section on UCR expansion. This public resource now outlines the project's key deliverables, implementation timeline, and ongoing updates. These measures reflect a continued commitment to public transparency and responsiveness to the needs of families, communities, and researchers. A dedicated section on the Hub is currently being updated to reflect additional progress in 2024-25 and 2025-26.

Complementary to this work, new analytical reports, using a distinctions-based approach and focusing on criminal justice outcomes, have been disseminated. For example, the article "Disparities in decision and sentencing outcomes between Indigenous accused and White accused in adult criminal court, 2016/2017 to 2020/2021", highlighted the systemic challenges faced by Indigenous people within the criminal court system. The distinctions-based analyses revealed some notable differences in outcomes for First Nations people, Métis and Inuit.

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.2, which calls for disaggregated data collection to inform the development of programs and policies that support Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ people. By ensuring data is broken down by identity, gender, geography, and other intersectional factors, this initiative enhances the evidence base for addressing systemic violence and discrimination.

Indigenous families, survivors, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals benefit from intersectional data collection that makes visible the unique barriers they face within policing and justice systems. This work lays the foundation for safer, more inclusive services and supports, helping to address invisibility and respond meaningfully to the specific harms faced by those most marginalized.

• Collection of disaggregated data: Enables detailed and distinctions-based analysis of Indigenous identity in criminal justice contexts, helping reveal patterns of overrepresentation and systemic bias.
• Foundational work for legislative and programmatic equity: Supports a whole-of-government approach to improving data equity, with integration into national police data systems and key social and health datasets.
• Grounded in community and sector engagement: Ongoing consultation with police services, Indigenous organizations, and academic experts ensures that new data collection processes are ethical, responsive, and informed by those most affected.
• Advancing transparency and accountability: Public-facing updates, implementation guides, and the inclusion of identity variables in crime data promote openness and accountability in justice systems.
• Enabling systemic change through data: Empowers policymakers, communities, and researchers to better understand and respond to the root causes of inequity in policing and justice.
• Pathway to inclusive policy development: Informs the design of policies, programs, and services that reflect the lived experiences and realities of Indigenous people and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals in Canada.

This initiative received $1,688,431 in funding from 2021-22 to 2025-26 (and $320,857 ongoing) in funding under the Disaggregated Data Action Plan to support the expansion of the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey and related engagement, analysis, and implementation activities. Future investments will be guided by ongoing system-wide coordination efforts and collaboration across policing, data, and justice sectors.

In 2024–25, the questionnaire for the second cycle was developed through research and extensive consultation with key partners and data users. Statistics Canada’s Questionnaire Design Resource Centre conducted qualitative testing with respondents across diverse geographic locations. Feedback from testing was compiled into a detailed report, and all recommendations were carefully reviewed to inform the final questionnaire design. Data collection is scheduled to occur from October 2024 through June 2025.

The increased sample size and oversampling strategy will support distinction-based and intersectional analysis. As with the first cycle, Statistics Canada will publish various new data products, including analyses focused on intimate partner violence, physical and sexual assault, and other forms of victimization. Notable reports from the first cycle included "Victimization of First Nations people, Métis and Inuit in Canada" (2022) and "Women's experiences of victimization in Canada's remote communities." These studies provided valuable context on the social, geographic, and cultural dimensions of violence, and future data products will continue to build on this foundation.

Initial survey results will be released through a Juristat report in 2026, followed by additional disaggregated data products and analyses through 2027. Communication strategies will include infographics, presentations, and accessible plain-language reports to reach a wide audience.

A broad range of Indigenous partners were engaged in 2024–25, including national and regional organizations, researchers, service providers, and population-specific representatives. Engagement ensured that survey design and future analyses reflect the lived realities of Indigenous communities and align with culturally appropriate data practices.

The SSPPS responds to Call for Justice 17.2 by generating data that helps fill longstanding gaps in the reporting of violence against Indigenous Peoples, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women. Through targeted data collection, the survey improves understanding of the contexts in which violence occurs and the barriers Indigenous Peoples face in accessing justice and support services.

Indigenous families, survivors and communities benefit from increased representation in national statistics, which supports the development of culturally relevant programs and services. Enhanced data also strengthens public awareness, accountability, and evidence-based policy responses to gender-based violence.

• Increases representation: Ensures the experiences of Indigenous and 2SLGBTQI+ people are reflected in national survey data.
• Supports evidence-based policy: Enables disaggregated analysis to inform responsive, inclusive programming.
• Complements police data: Captures self-reported experiences of violence, especially among populations less likely to report incidents to law enforcement.
• Advances prevention efforts: Provides insights needed to design interventions and public education strategies.
• Informs monitoring and accountability: Supports development of indicators to track progress in addressing gender-based violence.

The Indigenous-Led Data Research Projects Program responds to Call for Justice 17.2 by improving the processes of the collection and dissemination of disaggregated data concerning violence against Métis women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. By ensuring that Métis voices and perspectives shape research methodologies, the program enhances understanding of the barriers they face. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit as the program strengthens advocacy efforts and provides a basis for targeted policy responses.

• Processes of collecting disaggregated data on violence against Métis women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people: Ensures that Métis-specific data is collected and analyzed separately, addressing long-standing gaps in statistics on violence, socio-economic disparities, and systemic barriers. Allows for Métis worldviews and lived experiences to define how violence is understood and measured in their communities.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $50,000 was allocated to Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak’s Engaging with Governmental Data Holders to Extract Data and Promote Culturally Competent Research on Missing and Murdered Métis Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Métis project to engage with public safety, policing, and correctional authorities, as well as key federal departments working with data obtained from these authorities, in order to extract existing Métis-specific data on MMIWG currently not in the possession or at the disposal of the Women of the Métis Nation. The project also seeks to share understandings between Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak and current governmental data holders on how to expand their cultural competency in collecting, recording and sharing data on MMIWG using distinctions-based, gender-disaggregated, intersectional methodologies and indicators.
• Supporting Métis-led research and data collection: Prioritizes Métis governance and leadership in existing data collection processes, ensuring that Métis cultural perspectives shape how violence, harm, and safety are understood.
• Highlighting Métis barriers to safety and access to rights: Funds innovative approaches to improving data methodologies to collect and examine these barriers, such as: access to culturally appropriate victim services, and supports policy reform efforts that push for better service delivery and funding allocations for Métis communities.

The program is funded through Budget 2021, allocating $6.5 million over six years (2021-27) to support Indigenous-led research initiatives.

In 2024–25, ISC continued its work with Indigenous governing bodies to support the implementation of the Act. While the final figures can only be confirmed once the Government of Canada’s 2024-25 Public Accounts become available, ISC estimates that, since the Act came into force on January 1, 2020 and up until March 31, 2025, the Department has provided over $750 million to more than 14 Indigenous governing bodies to exercise their jurisdiction under the Act. In 2024-25, ISC estimates that more than $90 million was provided to Indigenous groups for capacity building and participation in coordination agreement discussions.

Progress was also made on the upcoming five-year review of the provisions and operation of the Act, which will be conducted in collaboration with Indigenous partners beginning in 2025. Pre-engagement activities included the development of a collaborative workplan and identification of initial themes and priorities for engagement. The Act’s implementation continues to be guided by Indigenous communities and partners, ensuring that it remains responsive to community-identified needs and priorities.

This initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.3 by affirming the rights of Métis Peoples to exercise jurisdiction over child and family services. The Act provides a framework that allows Métis communities to enact their own child welfare laws and service models. Since the Act came into force, three Métis governing bodies have submitted notices under section 20(1), and one coordination agreement discussion is in progress. These efforts represent concrete steps toward enabling culturally relevant, self-determined care solutions for Métis children and families.

Métis families, children, and communities impacted by the MMIWG2S+ crisis benefit from systems that reflect their own values, needs, and cultural practices. These reforms reduce reliance on non-Métis systems, which have historically contributed to displacement, mistrust, and harm, and create space for community-rooted safety and accountability.

• Strengthens Indigenous jurisdiction: Enables Indigenous communities to reclaim authority over child and family services and enact their own laws.
• Reduces overrepresentation: Supports preventive and culturally appropriate approaches to address the structural drivers of child welfare involvement.
• Protects the best interest of the child and cultural continuity: Prioritizes the preservation of Indigenous languages, traditions, kinship systems, and identity in care decisions.
• Enhances service equity: Mandates national standards that support substantive equality and prohibit child apprehension based on poverty.
• Promotes long-term safety and wellness: Improves conditions for Indigenous children and families through sustainable, trauma-informed, and community-led service delivery.

Since 2020, multiple federal budget allocations have supported the implementation of the Act:

• July 2020 Economic and Fiscal Snapshot: $542 million over five years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2021: $73.6 million over four years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2022: $428.1 million over three to ten years.
• Budget 2023: $444.2 million over three years (ending in 2026–27).
• Budget 2024: $1.8 billion over 11 years (ending in 2035).

These investments have supported capacity-building, coordination agreement discussions, and the implementation of Indigenous child and family service laws. All funding is administered through contribution and grant mechanisms, with implementation led by Indigenous Governing Bodies.

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.3 by providing funding to Métis-specific initiatives that amplify Métis voices in policy development, budgets and funding, and service delivery. This initiative makes specific investments to projects that represent Métis perspectives and culturally specific priorities.

• Equitable representation: Ensures Métis perspectives inform policy, service delivery, and decision-making processes.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $128,098 was allocated to the Infinity Women Secretariat’s Enhancing Engagement, Consultation and Advocacy Capacity to Support Red River Métis Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ project. This project is conducting a range of ongoing engagement and consultation, fostering increased partnerships among a range of communities, and collecting data and findings that will be incorporated into a report for government advocacy on identified priorities and needs.
• Self-determined solutions: Specific funding allocated for Métis organizations to develop community-driven, culturally specific programs and policies.
  • Example: In fiscal year 2024-25, $325,000 was provided to Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak (LMFO) for Implementation of the Canada LMFO Declaration. This initiative includes engaging Métis women and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, developing a term of reference, and creating a Declaration work-plan. LFMO will produce policy papers with recommendations on priorities identified by Métis women; build new relationships to advance these priorities; engage with federal departments; and report on progress.

Budget 2021 allocated $36.3 million over five years starting in 2021-22, with $8.6 million ongoing, for longer-term stable project funding. In fiscal year 2024-25, a total of $7,366,000 was invested in 33 active projects.

In 2024–25, ISC continued its work with Indigenous governing bodies to support the implementation of the Act. While the final figures can only be confirmed once the Government of Canada’s 2024-25 Public Accounts become available, ISC estimates that, since the Act came into force on January 1, 2020 and up until March 31, 2025, the Department has provided over $750 million to more than 14 Indigenous governing bodies to exercise their jurisdiction under the Act. In 2024-25, ISC estimates that more than $90 million was provided to Indigenous groups for capacity building and participation in coordination agreement discussions.

Progress was also made on the upcoming five-year review of the provisions and operation of the Act, which will be conducted in collaboration with Indigenous partners beginning in 2025. Pre-engagement activities included the development of a collaborative workplan and identification of initial themes and priorities for engagement. The Act’s implementation continues to be guided by Indigenous communities and partners, ensuring that it remains responsive to community-identified needs and priorities.

This initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.4 by establishing a legislative pathway for Métis Peoples to reclaim jurisdiction over child and family services. The framework supports Métis laws and coordination agreements, enabling Métis governments to design service models that align with their cultural and community priorities. ISC continues to support Métis-led efforts to exercise jurisdiction and provide distinctions-based funding to assist in capacity development and negotiation of agreements.

Métis families and children impacted by the MMIWG2S+ crisis benefit from more accessible and culturally relevant services delivered within their communities. These shifts build trust and enhance the safety and wellbeing of Métis children and youth, who are otherwise at risk in mainstream systems that may not recognize their specific cultural identity.

• Strengthens Indigenous jurisdiction: Enables Indigenous communities to reclaim authority over child and family services and enact their own laws.
• Reduces overrepresentation: Supports preventive and culturally appropriate approaches to address the structural drivers of child welfare involvement.
• Protects the best interest of the child and cultural continuity: Prioritizes the preservation of Indigenous languages, traditions, kinship systems, and identity in care decisions.
• Enhances service equity: Mandates national standards that support substantive equality and prohibit child apprehension based on poverty.
• Promotes long-term safety and wellness: Improves conditions for Indigenous children and families through sustainable, trauma-informed, and community-led service delivery.

Since 2020, multiple federal budget allocations have supported the implementation of the Act:

• July 2020 Economic and Fiscal Snapshot: $542 million over five years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2021: $73.6 million over four years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2022: $428.1 million over three to ten years.
• Budget 2023: $444.2 million over three years (ending in 2026–27).
• Budget 2024: $1.8 billion over 11 years (ending in 2035).

These investments have supported capacity-building, coordination agreement discussions, and the implementation of Indigenous child and family service laws. All funding is administered through contribution and grant mechanisms, with implementation led by Indigenous Governing Bodies.

In 2024–25, the Mental Wellness Program continued to flexibly fund a suite of mental wellness services, with most services delivered by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations. The Program funds access to trauma-informed mental health supports for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people; Survivors, Intergenerational Survivors, family members, and others impacted by Indian Residential Schools; Federal Indian Day Schools; and other colonial sources of trauma. This program funds access to mental health counselling (such as psychologists and social workers) and emotional (such as community-based health workers, peer counselling) and cultural (such as Elders, Traditional Healers) support services. The program also supports Indigenous-led suicide prevention, life promotion and crisis response programs and services – including crisis line intervention services and enhancing the delivery of culturally-appropriate substance use treatment and prevention services throughout Indigenous communities.

Some examples of organizations funded in 2024-25 through the Mental Wellness Program include:

• National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC)
• Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network (NAWN)
• Empowering Indigenous Women for Stronger Communities (EIWSC)
• Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC)
• First Light St. John's Friendship Centre
• Regroupement Des Centres D’Amitie Autochtones Du Québec (RCAAQ)
• Yukon Aboriginal Women's Council
• Qavvivik
• Tunngasugit Inuit Resource Centre
• Indigiqueer
• 2-Spirited People of The 1st Nations
• Manitoba Métis Federation
• Métis Nation of British Columba (MNBC)
• Northwest Territory Métis Nation (NWTMN)
• Metis Settlement General Council (MSGC)
• Otipemisiwak Métis Government
• Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO)
• Métis Nation - Saskatchewan (MN-S)
• Métis National Council (MNC)
• Native Youth Sexual Health Network (NYSHN)
• Two Spirits in Motion Society (2SIMS)
• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
• First Peoples' Wellness Circle
• We Matter
• Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services
• Thunderbird Partnership Foundation

The Mental Wellness Program engages at national and regional levels with Indigenous organizations to identify mental wellness priorities, gather feedback on existing programs, share funding opportunities, and discuss ongoing funding arrangements.

The Mental Wellness Program fulfills part of Call for Justice 17.4 by supporting a broad range of Indigenous-led initiatives that address the immediate mental wellness needs of communities through culturally grounded, trauma-informed, and accessible services. The program funds life promotion and suicide prevention activities, crisis intervention services, and substance use treatment and prevention programs that reflect the diverse realities and cultural strengths of Indigenous Peoples, including Indigenous youth and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. Through the deployment of mobile Mental Wellness Teams and the expansion of community-based mental health supports, the program contributes to the development of culturally appropriate services that reduce barriers to care and reflect the lived experiences of those most impacted by intergenerational trauma. While not exclusively focused on 2SLGBTQI+ people, the program’s emphasis on holistic, inclusive care creates pathways for more responsive and affirming supports. Métis families, survivors and communities benefit from this program as it builds capacity for culturally safe wellness services, reinforces community resilience, and supports healing through Métis-led and culturally relevant approaches.

The Mental Wellness Program continues to be supported by investments from Budget 2021, Budget 2022, the 2022 Fall Economic Statement, and Budget 2024. Specifically, Budget 2024 provided $630.2 million over two years, starting in 2024-25, to support Indigenous people’s access to mental health services, including through distinctions-based mental wellness strategies

The 2024-25 fiscal year began with a Senior Officials meeting on April 25, 2024, ahead of a tentatively scheduled annual Summit. The Summit was postponed due to governance changes at the Métis National Council. A Strategy Session was held between the Métis National Council and senior federal officials in October.

In fall 2024, the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan and the Métis Nation British Columbia withdrew from the Métis National Council. These changes led to the suspension of PBM meetings with the Prime Minister and Ministers. Senior management at Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada continue to hold individual bilateral meetings the Métis National Council and its Governing Members, as well as with its former Governing Members.

The Permanent Bilateral Mechanism (PBM) with the Métis Nation responds to part of Call for Justice 17.6 by advancing the implementation of a distinctions-based approach that takes into account the unique history of Métis communities and people. The PBM is a concrete response to the recommendation and provides a formal structure for Canada to work in partnership with the Métis Nation on shared priorities and addresses the need for recognition of the distinction-based approach for Métis through a permanent, action-oriented process that has been co-developed with the Métis Nation. It also supports the sustained and systemic engagement necessary for meaningful reconciliation and self-determined policy development, through ongoing meetings at multiple levels (Summits, Leaders Meetings, and Officials Meetings).

Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from a distinction-based forum in which their voices, priorities, and lived experiences are represented in a manner that shapes policies that directly affect their lives, including those related to safety, justice, and healing. The PBM advances long-overdue systemic changes through Métis-led, culturally grounded, and accountable nation-to-nation engagement.

• Advances self-determination: Empowers the Métis Nation to identify and lead on priorities that reflect community needs, values, and aspirations.
• Strengthens nation-to-nation relationships: Formalizes regular, high-level engagement between Canada and the Métis Nation, building trust and accountability.
• Supports implementation of past recommendations: Acts on long-standing recommendations from the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples and other inquiries, addressing systemic issues affecting Métis Peoples.
• Enables coordinated and transparent policy development: Establishes structured forums to develop, implement, and monitor Métis-specific policies and programs.
• Improves outcomes for Métis communities: Leads to more responsive and culturally relevant services in areas such as health, justice, education, and child and family well-being.

In 2024-25, the Canada-Métis Nation Permanent Bilateral Mechanism received $2.2 million through the Federal Interlocutor Contribution Program.

Budget 2024 provided $167.6 million over five years, starting in 2024-25, to combat anti-Indigenous racism in health care through continued support for: patient advocates, health system navigators, midwives, and birth support workers, and initiatives to increase Indigenous representation in the health professions.

In 2024–25, ISC continued funding national and regional Indigenous organizations to lead initiatives addressing anti-Indigenous racism in health systems. These included: various Indigenous health system navigator and patient advocate initiatives; the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations’ First Nations Ombudsperson Office; the Métis Nation of British Columbia’s Métis Health Experience Program; Two-Spirited People of Manitoba Inc’s information sessions on informed consent and rights awareness; and midwifery and birth support initiatives across Canada, including in Yukon, Inuvialuit, Nunavut, and Kuujjuaq.

The AAIR initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.7 through the funding of culturally appropriate health services for Métis people living in urban areas. These services include the delivery of navigation, advocacy, and reproductive care tailored to Métis realities.

Métis families and survivors affected by the MMIWG2S+ crisis who reside in urban centres benefit from increased access to health services that acknowledge and reflect their distinct identities and experiences.

• Strengthens cultural safety: Supports culturally appropriate services across the health system.
• Supports system navigation: Supports the training and employment of Indigenous health navigators and patient advocates.
• Increases representation: Creates pathways for increasing Indigenous representation in health professions.
• Prevents violence in care: Improves awareness and accountability through culturally safe training.
• Supports reproductive justice: Expands access to midwifery, doula, and wrap-around supports.

Building on the success from Budget 2021 investments, Budget 2024 reinvested $167.6 million over five years, starting in 2024-25, to combat anti-Indigenous racism in Canada's health systems. Funding allocations are guided by distinctions-based approaches, community needs, and collaboration with Indigenous health leaders and regional tables to ensure ongoing relevance and impact. Funding has been allocated for 2024-25 and 2025-26.

The Remote Passenger Rail Program responds to part of Call for Justice 17.9 by funding Indigenous-owned rail lines that serve Métis, First Nations, and Inuit communities and individuals, and provide safe, accessible, and sustainable transportation options. The program recognizes the importance of Indigenous-led infrastructure and supports the autonomy of Indigenous communities in operating and managing their own rail services. Indigenous families, survivors and communities benefit from this initiative by having safer travel options, reducing isolation, and fostering economic and cultural linkages between remote and urban areas.

• Safe and reliable transportation: Provides essential rail services for Indigenous communities. Reduces reliance on unsafe transportation methods, and ensures Indigenous communities are not isolated due to the absence of private transit options.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $7.6 million was allocated to Keewatin Railway Company to support capital investments aiming to ensure the continuation of remote passenger rail services that are operated through regions with limited or no other transportation options, and to support the ongoing and safe operation of remote passenger rail services.
• Enhanced safety and accessibility: Reduces transportation barriers for Indigenous communities, improving access to health, education, and employment services. Facilitates mobility, economic participation, and community well-being in isolated regions.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $6.9 million was allocated to Tshiuetin S.E.C. to support the operations of the rail operator to provide remote communities with a passenger rail service between Sept-Îles and Schefferville.
• Reducing risks of exploitation and trafficking: Contributes to lowering risks for Métis women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people associated with lack of safe transit in high-vulnerability areas of human trafficking and exploitation.
  • Example: In 2024-25, investments in rail service in rural areas provide access to reliable and maintained transportation and mean that people are not forced to rely on the unsafe, informal or exploitative means of travel known to be risk factors for trafficking and violence (e.g. hitchhiking, walking long distances and/or accepting rides from strangers).
• Support for Indigenous-owned rail lines: Promotes Indigenous governance and ownership in critical infrastructure.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $2.6 million was allocated to Keewatin Railway Company, an Indigenous-owned rail line based out of Manitoba.

The 2024 Budget allocated $61.9 million over three years to Tshiuetin S.E.C. and Keewatin Railway Company, starting in 2024. Additionally, the 2024-25 Fall Economic Statement announced $43.7 million to support the Hudson Bay Railway (HBR) through a contribution agreement aimed at funding operations and minor capital projects to enhance the long-term stability of the HBR. In March 2025, the Government of Canada announced additional funding for this project, bringing the total support to $125 million.

The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.15 by offering funding to Métis communities and organizations to incorporate Métis perspectives and people into the development and implementation of Indigenous-led security models and safety projects. These projects include culturally-specific interventions that address violence, social challenges, and systemic barriers to safety. Métis families, survivors and communities benefit from this initiative by accessing culturally-relevant safety solutions that reflect Métis values, traditions, and lived experiences.

• Enhancing Métis community safety: Funds the implementation of Métis-led safety measures that meet Métis community-specific needs and align with Métis communities’ values.
  • Example: In 2024-25, funding was provided to Métis Nation of Ontario for their Wellbeing of Métis and Urban Indigenous Individuals project to implement anti-human trafficking and victims services programs, including delivery of culturally relevant and holistic services. Services provided include justice programming, violence prevention information and education, safety planning, and culturally relevant referrals to women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ persons at-risk of violence, abuse, criminal justice involvement, human trafficking and other harm. Total funding is $3,338,443 over four years(2022-23 to 2025-26).
• Promoting holistic, Métis-led models: Emphasizes non-policing approaches to safety, including mental health and Métis traditional knowledge.
  • Example: In 2024-25, funding was provided to Île-à-la-Crosse Friendship Centre Inc. for their KIYA – It’s Up To You! project to create a safe community in Île-à-la-Crosse with healthy families, youth, and children. Île-à-la-Crosse Friendship Centre offered on-the-land cultural/healing activities to high-risk children and youth to help reduce issues such as drug dependency, poor health, low education, unemployment, high death rate due to unintentional injuries, teen pregnancies, suicide, violence and incarceration. Total funding is $536,762 over two years (2024-25 to 2025-26).
• Supporting 2SLGBTQI+ and urban Métis populations: Funds programs focused on the unique safety needs of Métis women and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.
  • Example: In 2024-25, funding was provided to Métis Nation of Alberta Association for their Promoting and Increasing Cultural Safety for Métis Women, Youth, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Community Members project to promote and protect the ability of all Métis Albertans to safely engage in and practice traditionally female and gender queer-dominated cultural activities and experiences. Activities undertaken included providing a safe space for Métis women, youth and 2SLGBTQI+ to connect and discuss cultural safety experiences, increasing incorporation of these groups into consultation activities, protecting cultural activities, and providing leadership training (Total funding is $1,901,923 over two years (2024-25 to 2025-26).

The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative has allocated $120 million over five years (2021-26) to support community-led safety projects across First Nations, Inuit, and Métis populations, including urban-based Indigenous organizations.

In 2024–25, ISC continued its work with Indigenous governing bodies to support the implementation of the Act. While the final figures can only be confirmed once the Government of Canada’s 2024-25 Public Accounts become available, ISC estimates that, since the Act came into force on January 1, 2020 and up until March 31, 2025, the Department has provided over $750 million to more than 14 Indigenous governing bodies to exercise their jurisdiction under the Act. In 2024-25, ISC estimates that more than $90 million was provided to Indigenous groups for capacity building and participation in coordination agreement discussions.

Progress was also made on the upcoming five-year review of the provisions and operation of the Act, which will be conducted in collaboration with Indigenous partners beginning in 2025. Pre-engagement activities included the development of a collaborative workplan and identification of initial themes and priorities for engagement. The Act’s implementation continues to be guided by Indigenous communities and partners, ensuring that it remains responsive to community-identified needs and priorities.

This initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.16 by affirming the right of Métis Peoples to develop and implement culturally appropriate child and family service laws. Through the framework of the Act, Métis communities may propose and implement jurisdictional frameworks rooted in Métis cultural values and family structures. The federal government supports this work through capacity funding, coordination discussions, and service implementation agreements.

For Métis families, children, and communities impacted by the MMIWG2S+ crisis, these jurisdictional tools strengthen Under this framework, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, groups, aof children.

• Strengthens Indigenous jurisdiction: Enables Indigenous communities to reclaim authority over child and family services and enact their own laws.
• Reduces overrepresentation: Supports preventive and culturally appropriate approaches to address the structural drivers of child welfare involvement.
• Protects the best interest of the child and cultural continuity: Prioritizes the preservation of Indigenous languages, traditions, kinship systems, and identity in care decisions.
• Enhances service equity: Mandates national standards that support substantive equality and prohibit child apprehension based on poverty.
• Promotes long-term safety and wellness: Improves conditions for Indigenous children and families through sustainable, trauma-informed, and community-led service delivery.

Since 2020, multiple federal budget allocations have supported the implementation of the Act:

• July 2020 Economic and Fiscal Snapshot: $542 million over five years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2021: $73.6 million over four years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2022: $428.1 million over three to ten years.
• Budget 2023: $444.2 million over three years (ending in 2026–27).
• Budget 2024: $1.8 billion over 11 years (ending in 2035).

These investments have supported capacity-building, coordination agreement discussions, and the implementation of Indigenous child and family service laws. All funding is administered through contribution and grant mechanisms, with implementation led by Indigenous Governing Bodies.

In 2024–25, ISC continued its work with Indigenous governing bodies to support the implementation of the Act. While the final figures can only be confirmed once the Government of Canada’s 2024-25 Public Accounts become available, ISC estimates that, since the Act came into force on January 1, 2020 and up until March 31, 2025, the Department has provided over $750 million to more than 14 Indigenous governing bodies to exercise their jurisdiction under the Act. In 2024-25, ISC estimates that more than $90 million was provided to Indigenous groups for capacity building and participation in coordination agreement discussions.

Progress was also made on the upcoming five-year review of the provisions and operation of the Act, which will be conducted in collaboration with Indigenous partners beginning in 2025. Pre-engagement activities included the development of a collaborative workplan and identification of initial themes and priorities for engagement. The Act’s implementation continues to be guided by Indigenous communities and partners, ensuring that it remains responsive to community-identified needs and priorities.

This initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.17 by enabling Métis communities to exercise control over child and family services through the implementation of their own laws under the Act. Since January 2020, three Métis governing bodies have initiated this process. ISC’s funding and technical support facilitate Métis-driven approaches to family wellbeing, early intervention, and cultural continuity.

Métis families and children affected by the MMIWG2S+ crisis benefit from Métis-led care systems that understand and respond to the unique dynamics of Métis identity, kinship, and trauma. These changes help create safer, more supportive environments for Métis children and reduce the systemic drivers of removal and violence.

• Strengthens Indigenous jurisdiction: Enables Indigenous communities to reclaim authority over child and family services and enact their own laws.
• Reduces overrepresentation: Supports preventive and culturally appropriate approaches to address the structural drivers of child welfare involvement.
• Protects the best interest of the child and cultural continuity: Prioritizes the preservation of Indigenous languages, traditions, kinship systems, and identity in care decisions.
• Enhances service equity: Mandates national standards that support substantive equality and prohibit child apprehension based on poverty.
• Promotes long-term safety and wellness: Improves conditions for Indigenous children and families through sustainable, trauma-informed, and community-led service delivery.

Since 2020, multiple federal budget allocations have supported the implementation of the Act:

• July 2020 Economic and Fiscal Snapshot: $542 million over five years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2021: $73.6 million over four years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2022: $428.1 million over three to ten years.
• Budget 2023: $444.2 million over three years (ending in 2026–27).
• Budget 2024: $1.8 billion over 11 years (ending in 2035).

These investments have supported capacity-building, coordination agreement discussions, and the implementation of Indigenous child and family service laws. All funding is administered through contribution and grant mechanisms, with implementation led by Indigenous Governing Bodies.

In 2024–25, ISC continued its work with Indigenous governing bodies to support the implementation of the Act. While the final figures can only be confirmed once the Government of Canada’s 2024-25 Public Accounts become available, ISC estimates that, since the Act came into force on January 1, 2020 and up until March 31, 2025, the Department has provided over $750 million to more than 14 Indigenous governing bodies to exercise their jurisdiction under the Act. In 2024-25, ISC estimates that more than $90 million was provided to Indigenous groups for capacity building and participation in coordination agreement discussions.

Progress was also made on the upcoming five-year review of the provisions and operation of the Act, which will be conducted in collaboration with Indigenous partners beginning in 2025. Pre-engagement activities included the development of a collaborative workplan and identification of initial themes and priorities for engagement. The Act’s implementation continues to be guided by Indigenous communities and partners, ensuring that it remains responsive to community-identified needs and priorities.

This initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.18 by supporting the creation and implementation of culturally appropriate child and family service systems for Métis communities. The Act creates a framework under which Métis governing bodies may take full responsibility for service delivery, supported by coordination agreements and sustainable fiscal arrangements. These systems allow Métis communities to reclaim authority over the wellbeing of their children and families.

Métis families, children, and communities impacted by the MMIWG2S+ crisis benefit from the ability to access services grounded in cultural safety, community care, and legal empowerment. This represents a shift away from harmful practices rooted in colonial systems and a step toward restoring dignity and self-determination for Métis Peoples.

• Strengthens Indigenous jurisdiction: Enables Indigenous communities to reclaim authority over child and family services and enact their own laws.
• Reduces overrepresentation: Supports preventive and culturally appropriate approaches to address the structural drivers of child welfare involvement.
• Protects the best interest of the child and cultural continuity: Prioritizes the preservation of Indigenous languages, traditions, kinship systems, and identity in care decisions.
• Enhances service equity: Mandates national standards that support substantive equality and prohibit child apprehension based on poverty.
• Promotes long-term safety and wellness: Improves conditions for Indigenous children and families through sustainable, trauma-informed, and community-led service delivery.

Since 2020, multiple federal budget allocations have supported the implementation of the Act:

• July 2020 Economic and Fiscal Snapshot: $542 million over five years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2021: $73.6 million over four years (ending in 2024–25).
• Budget 2022: $428.1 million over three to ten years.
• Budget 2023: $444.2 million over three years (ending in 2026–27).
• Budget 2024: $1.8 billion over 11 years (ending in 2035).

These investments have supported capacity-building, coordination agreement discussions, and the implementation of Indigenous child and family service laws. All funding is administered through contribution and grant mechanisms, with implementation led by Indigenous Governing Bodies.

As of December 2024, the overall program impact across all Indigenous participants includes:

• Over 31,600 Indigenous individuals accessed ISET-supported training, skills development opportunities, and wrap-around supports such as child care, academic upgrading, and career counselling.
  • This includes 16,035 Indigenous women, reflecting the program’s strong emphasis on reducing barriers for women to participate in the labour market.
• Over 11,800 individuals gained employment following participation in ISET-funded programming.
  • Of these, 5,443 were women, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in supporting economic empowerment and advancing gender equity.
• Over 4,800 individuals returned to school for further training or education as part of their career development journey.
  • This includes 2,811 women, many of whom accessed academic upgrading or post-secondary education supports provided through ISET.

As of December 2024, the distinction-based program impact for Métis participants includes:

• Over 6,500 Métis participants received training, and employment supports tailored to their community’s priorities and regional labour market needs.
  • Among these, 1,699 were Métis women, highlighting the importance of culturally relevant and accessible programming for Métis women’s advancement.
• Over 2,400 Métis participants secured employment following ISET-supported programming.
  • This includes 1,413 Métis women, reflecting significant progress in addressing employment gaps for Métis women across Canada.
• Over 2,200 Métis individuals returned to school to pursue further education and training.
  • 1,424 were women, illustrating strong uptake of educational supports and a growing interest in long-term career development pathways among Métis women.

The ISET Program responds to part of to the Call for Justice 17.19 as it supports the strengthening of Métis participation in the labour market through skills development and employment supports. The program provides long-term, distinctions-based funding to Métis service delivery organizations, enabling them to design, develop, and deliver programming that is community-led and grounded in Métis knowledge, culture, and economic priorities. These initiatives support Métis individuals in gaining the skills and training necessary for meaningful employment and educational advancement, while also promoting inclusive approaches that address the specific needs of Métis women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from the ISET Program through sustained, distinctions-based funding that enables Métis-led organizations to design and deliver culturally grounded training and employment services. These services are developed by and for Métis people, ensuring they reflect Métis values, economic priorities, and the lived realities of Métis women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.

• Reduces barriers for Métis women and 2SLGBTQI+ people: Provides wrap-around supports—such as child care, mental health services, and transportation. Helps address systemic barriers, enabling safer and more equitable access to education, healing, and employment opportunities.
• Promotes healing, safety, and stability through economic empowerment: Provides access to meaningful employment and education supports financial independence, which is a critical factor in preventing violence, supporting healing from trauma, and promoting long-term well-being for Métis survivors, families, and communities.
• Supports Métis self-determination and community-led solutions: Funds Indigenous organizations to design and deliver culturally grounded services. Respects and strengthens Métis control over employment and healing pathways.
• Enhances access to education and skills development: Supports academic upgrading and post-secondary pathways. Enables participants to build confidence, pursue long-term goals, and strengthen their roles within families and communities.
• Provides long-term, predictable investment in Indigenous communities: Offers stable, responsive, and innovative services by providing ten-year, distinctions-based funding agreements.

The ISET Program was established through Budget 2018 with an initial investment of $2 billion over five years (2019–2024) to support distinctions-based, Indigenous-led employment and training services. The program delivers ongoing, predictable annual funding of $408.2 million from 2024 onward.

Funding is allocated on a distinctions basis, ensuring tailored support for:

• First Nations: $1.1 billion over five years; $235.7 million annually ongoing.
• Inuit: $161.2 million over five years; $32.6 million annually ongoing.
• Métis: $325 million over five years; $67 million annually ongoing.
• Urban/Non-affiliated Indigenous Peoples: $213.4 million over five years; $45.2 million annually ongoing.

To address long-standing service gaps, the ISET Program created a dedicated Urban/Non-affiliated stream—supporting access to employment and training services for Indigenous Peoples living out of territory or in urban centres.

The program provides ten-year funding agreements (April 2019 to March 2029) to increase flexibility, planning capacity, and long-term impact for Indigenous service delivery organizations. Since its launch, over $2 billion has been allocated, including a one-time investment of $144.2 million in 2021–22 to support pandemic recovery.

The FVPP responds to part of Call for Justice 17.20 by ensuring Indigenous communities, including Métis people, can access culturally relevant supports and violence prevention programming. While additional funding is required to expand services, this initiative strengthens Métis-led approaches to reducing gender-based violence. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from this program by accessing culturally safe and Métis-led prevention and intervention services.

• Culturally informed prevention programs: Funding for Indigenous-led violence prevention programs, some of which are Métis-led initiatives.
  • Example: In 2024-25, Mamawi Pimohtetan (Cree for Walking Together) Program for Men provided a safe and accepting environment for Métis men to engage in culturally-informed gathering sessions, namely sharing circles, while learning coping mechanisms predicated on traditional Métis teachings.
• Support for Métis families and communities: Increased access to education, awareness, and crisis intervention services.
  • Example: In 2024-25, the Violence Prevention for Métis Families Project focused on the development of an evidence-informed, needs-based, and culturally-appropriate workshops on the prevention of violence in Métis communities.
• Addresses some barriers to safety: FVPP-funded shelters and programs provide critical support to Métis survivors of violence, though accessibility varies by region.

The initiative is funded as part of the $724.1 million Comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy. Indigenous Services Canada received $304.1 million over five years starting in 2021-22, with $96.7 million ongoing to support the operation of new shelters and transitional homes, as well as to fund culturally appropriate violence prevention activities. The Family Violence Prevention Program spent its full allocation of $96.7 million in 2024-25. This includes $9.6 million to support facility operations, $21.5 million to support shelter project development, and $65.6 million to programs and services for Indigenous people facing gender-based violence.

The ISTHI responds to part of Call for Justice 17.20 by providing Métis-led, culturally appropriate shelters and transitional housing, ensuring services are developed and delivered by Indigenous organizations and communities. These shelters integrate traditional Métis healing practices, language, and community-driven support models. Additional long-term investments are required to ensure full accessibility for all Indigenous Peoples. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from access to safe, culturally appropriate spaces, including no-barrier safe spaces for Métis mothers and families in need.

• Métis leadership in housing services: Strengthened Métis leadership in shelter and housing services.
• Expansion of culturally appropriate supports: Expansion of culturally appropriate, community-driven supports.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $3.48 million was allocated to Prince Albert Community Housing Society Inc.’s Miakoda Transitional Housing Project to build 8-unit transitional housing will provide transitional homes for Métis women and 2SLGBTQI+ people and their children who are fleeing interpersonal violence.
• Enhanced safety for survivors: Increased safety and security for Métis survivors of violence.

In 2021, $336.78 million has been committed towards the construction of new shelters, with construction funding managed by and flowed to Indigenous partners.

As of December 31, 2024, in fiscal year 2024-2025, CMHC funded 32 new projects through ISTHI and provided $161,706,675 in funding.

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.20 by ensuring Métis communities receive targeted housing investments that reflect self-determination and long-term sustainability. The NHS supports the development of Métis-led shelters, transitional housing, and supportive housing services, ensuring that Métis women and families have access to safe and culturally appropriate living spaces. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from access to secure housing tailored to their cultural and social realities.

• Métis-specific housing investments: Funding for Métis-led shelters, transitional housing projects, and community-driven housing solutions to address homelessness and housing insecurity.
• Community-led, self-governed housing solutions: Métis self-determined policies, including supporting Métis self-governance in housing initiatives to ensure culturally relevant, sustainable, and long-term housing solutions.
• Expanded safe housing access: Funding for new construction of homes, multi-unit dwellings, and community-led housing projects, and for upgrades and repairs to ensure existing housing stock meets safety, sustainability, and accessibility standards.
• Expansion of emergency and transitional shelters: Committed $336.78 million through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative toward the construction of 37 new shelters and 34 new transitional homes for Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQI+ people escaping gender-based violence.
• Prioritizing vulnerable populations: Safe, stable housing for women, children, seniors, and those at risk of homelessness, domestic violence, and human trafficking.
• Long-term housing and economic security: Investments in transitional and second-stage housing, rental assistance, and affordable housing for low-income Métis families.
• Preventing family separation and child welfare interventions: Housing programs that provide stability for Métis families, reducing the risk of child apprehension due to poverty, overcrowding, or unsafe living conditions.
• 2SLGBTQI+ inclusive housing solutions: Culturally informed shelters, affordable housing, and advocacy for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals facing housing insecurity.

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.20 by investing in Métis-led services that incorporate traditional healing, family support, and culturally relevant program that address the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of Métis women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from this initiative by accessing Métis-specific healing services that reinforce their cultural identities and long-term well-being.

• Métis-led healing initiatives: Ensures services are designed and delivered by Métis communities for Métis people.
• Holistic support services: Provides Métis victims and families with trauma-informed care, counseling, and community-driven healing initiatives. Supports emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health programs.
• Equitable and accessible assistance: Reduces barriers to accessing essential healing services for Métis victims and families.
• Sustainable community programming: Provides long-term funding to sustain Métis-led healing services.

The program funds Indigenous organizations and communities through calls for proposals, ensuring equitable and sustained funding for supports and services. Funding amounts vary and are allocated based on demonstrated need, proposed project scope, and program capacity. In 2024-25, $2,300,424 was allocated to funding recipients.

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.20 by investing $4 billion for the creation of a National Indigenous Housing Strategy, including the National Indigenous Housing Centre to oversee housing programs and funding allocations. The National Centre will facilitate the creation of a range of housing and shelter options, including no-barrier safe spaces for those in greatest need. The initiative strengthens Indigenous leadership in housing delivery and programs, ensuring that solutions reflect Indigenous perspectives. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from this program as it fosters culturally informed housing solutions and enhances access to safe living environments.

• Improved housing security and access to safe housing: Direct funding enables Métis-led construction, repairs, and culturally appropriate shelters, transitional housing, and permanent homes.
• Métis-led, self-determined housing solutions: Métis governments and organizations control funding allocation, ensuring housing solutions reflect cultural, geographic, and community needs.
• Culturally relevant and holistic housing services: Supports the development of housing that integrates Métis traditions, languages, and ways of life while coordinating with mental health and social services.
• Support for vulnerable populations: Assists Métis individuals facing homelessness, food insecurity, and violence by expanding shelter and housing options.
• Indigenous governance and leadership in housing: Governance by, and direct funding to First Nations, Inuit and Métis, who determine respective U.R.N. housing plans, priorities and funding delivery. The National Indigenous Housing Centre, will be Indigenous-led , ensuring self-determined policies and delivery of housing across the country to narrow the gap in housing need and opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.
• Sustainable and comprehensive housing solutions: Investments contribute to long-term, stable housing with enhanced coordination and Indigenous oversight.
• Enhanced coordination: The Centre will streamline housing efforts across Métis communities, ensuring resources reach those in need.

Budget 2023 allocated $4 billion over seven years, starting in 2024-25, for implementation of the U.R.N. Indigenous Housing Strategy and the establishment of a National Indigenous Housing Centre. A request for proposal process was launched in 2024 to establish the National Centre. Funding under this strategy supports the development and sustainability of Indigenous-led housing services, including shelters and transition homes.

The FVPP responds to part of Call for Justice 17.23 by providing funding for Indigenous-led healing initiatives that incorporate traditional knowledge and community-driven approaches. While more resources are needed to expand these services, this initiative strengthens cultural reconnection and resilience for Indigenous survivors of violence. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from this program by gaining access to culturally grounded healing programs that promote holistic well-being.

• Land-based healing and traditional teachings: Supporting Indigenous knowledge and cultural reconnection as pathways to healing. Some FVPP-funded shelters integrate traditional healing, Elder-led counseling, and trauma-informed care, which align with Métis cultural supports.
• Trauma-informed mental health supports: Access to culturally safe counseling and wellness programming.
  • Example: In 2024-25, Mamawi Pimohtetan (Cree for Walking Together) Program for Men provided a safe and accepting environment for Métis men to engage in culturally-informed gathering sessions, namely sharing circles, while learning coping mechanisms predicated on traditional Métis teachings.
• Métis-led violence prevention initiatives: The FVPP funds Indigenous-led community-driven violence prevention programs, which include some Métis-specific projects.
  • Example: In 2024-25, the Violence Prevention for Métis Families Project focused on the development of an evidence-informed, needs-based, and culturally-appropriate workshops on the prevention of violence in Métis communities.

The initiative is funded as part of the $724.1 million Comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy. Indigenous Services Canda received $304.1 million over five years starting in 2021-22, with $96.7 million ongoing to support the operation of new shelters and transitional homes, as well as to fund culturally appropriate violence prevention activities. The Family Violence Prevention Program spent its full allocation of $96.7 million in 2024-25. This includes $9.6 million to support facility operations, $21.5 million to support shelter project development, and $65.6 million to programs and services for Indigenous people facing gender-based violence.

The ISTHI responds to part of Call for Justice 17.23 by ensuring that violence prevention activities and culturally appropriate support services are Métis-led and community-driven. The shelters funded through this initiative incorporate traditional knowledge, healing practices, and Métis governance models to provide holistic care. Additional investments are needed to further enhance accessibility and sustainability. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from access to safe, culturally relevant spaces and support services that may support the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual dimensions of their well-being.

• Métis-led violence prevention: Strengthened Métis-led violence prevention efforts.
• Culturally relevant support services: Increased access to culturally relevant, wraparound support services.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $3.48 million was allocated to Prince Albert Community Housing Society Inc.’s Miakoda Transitional Housing Project to build eight units of transitional housing will provide transitional homes for Métis women and 2SLGBTQI+ people and their children who are fleeing interpersonal violence.
• Long-term safety and housing stability: Enhanced long-term safety and housing stability for Métis individuals.

Since 2021, $336.78 million has been committed towards the construction of new shelters, with construction funding managed by CMHC and flowed to Indigenous partners.

As of December 31, 2024, in fiscal year 2024-2025, CMHC funded 32 new projects through ISTHI and provided $161,706,675 in funding.

The Distinctions-based Housing Initiative’s Métis Housing Investment responds to Call for Justice 17.23 by recognizing the fundamental link between housing and health. By investing in Métis-led housing projects, the initiative supports improved well-being through secure and stable living environments. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from housing that directly contributes to their physical and mental health, safety, and stability.

• Safe and adequate housing: Increased access to safe and affordable housing for Métis communities and reducing stress and health risks. Construction and renovation of 1,865 new units, directly addressing urgent housing needs in Métis communities.
• Improved and healthy living conditions: Improved energy efficiency and longevity of existing housing. Renovations completed on 6,524 dwellings, leading to healthier, safer living environments.
• Reduced homelessness: Strengthened community-led solutions to address housing disparities. Reduction in homelessness and overcrowding.

Funding has been allocated to support critical infrastructure projects and respond to the housing needs of the communities, by investing in the construction and purchase of new housing units, renovation of existing housing units, and subsidized rent. Detailed examples are not provided in this report due to the autonomous and community-led nature of project implementation. This approach aligns with the principle of self-determination, providing Métis governance structures with authority over decision-making processes.

Through ongoing investments, Métis organizations have received targeted and distinctions-based housing investments. Budget 2022 expanded funding to additional Métis partners (e.g. Metis Settlements in Alberta and Métis in the Northwest Territories), and Budget 2023 included the Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy. As of March 2024, these funding investments have directly impacted thousands of Métis individuals and families through improved housing and economic support measures.

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.23 by investing $4 billion in a National Indigenous Urban, Rural and Northern Housing Strategy, including delivery of programming and services by a new National Indigenous Housing Centre, and through direct agreements with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners. It prioritizes housing solutions, such as supportive housing, linked to wraparound services and supports for Indigenous individuals in need. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from this program as it ensures access to stable housing linked to housing-related support services that promote well-being and long-term security.

• Improved housing security and access to safe housing: Direct funding enables Métis -led construction, repairs, and culturally appropriate shelters, transitional housing, and permanent homes.
• Métis-led, self-determined housing solutions: Métis governments and organizations control funding allocation, ensuring housing solutions reflect cultural, geographic, and community needs.
• Culturally relevant and holistic housing services: Supports the development of housing that integrates Métis traditions, languages, and ways of life while coordinating with mental health and social services.
• Support for vulnerable populations: Assists Métis individuals facing homelessness, food insecurity, and violence by expanding shelter and housing options.
• Indigenous governance and leadership in housing: Governance by, and direct funding to First Nations, Inuit and Métis, who determine respective U.R.N. housing plans, priorities and funding delivery. The National Indigenous Housing Centre, will be Indigenous-led , ensuring self-determined policies and delivery of housing across the country to narrow the gap in housing need and opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.
• Sustainable and comprehensive housing solutions: Investments contribute to long-term, stable housing with enhanced coordination and Métis oversight.

Budget 2023 allocated $4 billion over seven years, starting in 2024-25, for implementation of the U.R.N. Indigenous Housing Strategy and the establishment of a National Indigenous Housing Centre. A request for proposal process was launched in 2024 to establish the National Centre. Funding under this strategy supports the development and sustainability of Indigenous-led housing services, including shelters and transition homes.

This initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.24 by fostering greater awareness and understanding of Métis identity, history, and governance within the federal public service. By offering structured learning experiences and promoting Indigenous-led content, the curriculum supports the National Inquiry’s call to increase Métis visibility and cultural recognition in Canada.

Métis families, survivors and communities benefit from the way this program is working to restore, reclaim, and revitalize Métis cultural identity among federal public servants through the provision of training that reflects an accurate and respectful representation of Métis history, traditions, and their positive achievements and contributions to Canada.

• Increased public service awareness: Expands knowledge of Métis culture, history, and governance among government employees.
• Strengthened relationships: Develops employee capacity for culturally safe interactions and meaningful engagement with Métis individuals, communities and organizations.
• Métis-led content development: Ensures materials are informed by Métis Elders and Knowledge Keepers. Provides learning opportunities rooted in Indigenous perspectives and contemporary realities.

Funding for Indigenous Learning is provided through the CSPS budget allocation.

This initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.25 by funding Métis communities to document and digitize their languages and histories. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from increased access to cultural resources that support language learning, historical awareness, and intergenerational knowledge transfer.

• Métis cultural preservation: Supports Métis organizations in documenting and safeguarding their histories. Funding is allocated to Métis organizations for digitization projects that align with community-led cultural preservation priorities.
• Language revitalization: Funds digitization projects that focus on Métis language preservation.
• Community-controlled knowledge: Ensures Métis communities have agency over their historical documentation efforts.
• Expanded public access: Increases awareness and recognition of Métis heritage through digital accessibility.

Budget 2021 allocated $14.9 million over four years, with $2,962,843 allocated to Listen, Hear Our Voices. Library and Archives Canada provides funding through to Indigenous communities for small projects (up to $24,999) and large projects ($25,000-$100,000).

The initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.26 by ensuring long-term investment in Métis cultural education with the objective of supporting early childhood educational programming that helps to revitalize the practice of Métis culture. By funding Michif-language instruction and Métis-specific curriculum, it supports language preservation and cultural revitalization. Métis families, survivors and communities benefit as Métis children experience education that connects them to their cultural roots and identities.

• Equitable access to education: Ensures that Métis children and families have access to high-quality, culturally appropriate early learning education.
  • Example: The Métis Nation Government in British Columbia, utilizing joint IELCC and BC provincial distinction-based funding envelopes, opened new sites in 2024-25 including 24 new spaces at a site in Mission, BC, with additional sites set to open in the coming months.
• Michif language integration: Expands Michif-led language immersion programs in child care settings.
• Investment in Métis-led educational programs: Supports Métis-led, community-driven education that reflects Métis knowledge, language, and traditions. Expanding programs that preserve and revitalize Inuit culture, particularly in early learning settings.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $366,093 was allocated to Gift Lake Métis Settlement Association’s Gift Lake Aboriginal Head Start Improvement Initiative as part of IELCC’s the Quality Improvement Projects funding. This project will support the development of new Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care programming, including the establishment of language nests, opportunities for children to engage in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning, the creation of culturally sensitive learning environments, and the expansion of land-based learning initiatives.

The IELCC Initiative is supported by a permanent and ongoing funding structure. To strengthen early learning and child care programs and services for Indigenous children and families, the Government of Canada has made investments through Budget 2017, the 2020 Fall Economic Statement and Budget 2021. Investments were also made under the COVID emergency restart for one year of funding ($120 million in2020-21).

The majority of federal Indigenous ELCC investments are housed in flexible distinctions-based funding envelopes to enable Indigenous leaders at the national and regional level to direct funding allocations at any number of priorities.

In 2024-25, the total funding for each distinction includes $446 million for First Nations-led child care; $56 million for Inuit-specific early learning programs; and $189 million for Métis Nation-directed child care services.

The remaining 2024-25 IELCC funding is not dedicated to the distinctions-based funding envelopes. Instead, $16 million is dedicated to the Quality Improvement Projects fund that finances projects that foster innovation and quality improvement in IELCC. Similarly, funding is also provided through the three IELCC Legacy funding streams. In 2024-25, $42 million was dedicated to the Aboriginal Head Start On Reserve program, $29 million to the Aboriginal Head Start in Urban and Northern Communities program, and $55 million to the First Nations and Inuit Child Care Initiative. An additional $80 million was also directed to legacy funded sites in 2024-25 for urgent repairs and renovations.

This is in addition to any funding that may be allocated to Indigenous communities for ELCC, via funding agreements with provinces and territories.

The IJP responds to Call for Justice 17.27 by funding the Manitoba Métis Federation’s Child and Family Mediation Services, ensuring culturally relevant mediation support is available to Métis families navigating conflict resolution. The IJP funds Indigenous-led community justice programs, including child and family mediation services.

Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from Métis-led justice services that prioritize healing, family unity, and culturally informed mediation.

• Restorative justice: Programs incorporate traditional justice and healing practices. Programs emphasize restorative justice and reintegration, rather than punitive measures, and help reduce recidivism and promotes community healing.
• Cultural safety: Services integrate Métis traditions, perspectives, and values into justice practices. Programs are designed and delivered by Métis communities. Culturally relevant justice services enhance community trust.
• Victim support: Trauma-informed training ensures justice programs provide culturally appropriate support to victims.
• Focus on Métis women and 2SLGBTQI+ safety: While broadly serving Métis communities, IJP-supported initiatives can contribute to violence prevention efforts for Métis women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people by offering alternatives to incarceration and systemic criminalization.
• Métis-specific mediation: Programs facilitate family and community mediation. Conflict resolution services improve access to justice for Indigenous families.
• Conflict resolution support: Mediation prevents legal escalation and promotes family unity.

Budget 2021 allocated $13.6 million over three years (2021-2024). Budget 2024 announced $26.9 million over five years and $5.4 million ongoing for the Indigenous Justice Program to renew Budget 2021 funding for program integrity. As of April 2025, investments have supported 214 programs serving 650+ communities.

The CSHF initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.28 by making available project funding to increase access to healing and support services that provide culturally safe spaces for Métis families to access grief counseling, traditional healing practices, and family support networks. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from this program through increased access critical healing spaces and culturally relevant support networks that help families navigate grief, loss, and trauma.

• Culturally relevant Métis support services: Programs integrate Métis knowledge, traditions, and community-based healing.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $149,569 was allocated to the Prince Albert Métis Association’s Safe Communities Projects (Pathways to Recovery) to create safe spaces for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ persons to share their stories and access supports and provide holistic supports and services through Elders and a Family Counsellor/awareness worker. The project is increasing awareness about missing and murdered Indigenous women and the impact of victimization on families. The pathways involve working with other Indigenous organizations, community agencies, and community members to identify needs and gaps in services.
• Greater access to trauma-informed support: Families receive grief counseling, healing circles, and community gatherings.
• Métis-led programming: Services are delivered by Métis organizations to ensure they reflect Métis cultural values and traditions.
  • Example: In 2024-25, $150,000 was allocated to Manitoba Métis Federation’s Métis Family Support Project to create a registration process for Red River Métis Citizens and families to access resources and services and increase knowledge and awareness of victimization.

Budget 2023 allocated $20 million over five years, with $4.15 million annually to sustain and expand the initiative. This funding has allowed for the growth in the number of projects funded each year, and as the funding is ongoing multi-year workplans and activities can be funded. In 2024-25, 33 multi-year projects were approved following the October 2023 call for proposals, for a total investment of over $22.2 million over five years and over $4.85 million in 2024-25.

In fiscal year 2024–25, the initiative continued to build on the expanded mandate introduced in Budget 2023 including:

• Enhanced inter-jurisdictional information sharing to inform renewed models and activities within the FILU framework;
• Increased funding to support the strategic review and design of the FILU in each jurisdiction to support continuity of service, training, and the next five-year strategic plan;
• Realignment by some jurisdictions to ensure that the appropriate provincial or territorial department/ministry is delivering and monitoring the FILUs; and
• Approval of new funding agreements for the continued delivery of FILU operations in each province and territory for the 2025-26 to 2029-30 timeframe.

The FILU initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 17.28 by working to create and expand Métis-specific victim services that support Métis families with missing or murdered loved ones. Call for Justice 17.28 calls for increased, culturally relevant victim support services tailored to the unique needs of Métis families. FILUs are building capacity to offer Métis-informed services, and to strengthen partnerships with Métis organizations and communities to better reflect their specific cultural and regional contexts. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from this program by gaining improved access to information and supports that reflect their unique cultural identities, experiences, and healing needs.

• Métis-specific support services: While some FILUs are delivered with Métis partnerships, FILUs across Canada are working to develop their capacity to address and reflect the unique needs of Métis families navigating the justice system and that families receive culturally relevant, trauma-informed services tailored to their experiences.
• Interjurisdictional coordination: FILUs help Métis families overcome systemic barriers by coordinating access to information from various agencies, including police, courts, and victim services, across different jurisdictions.
• Expansion of services: With increased funding, FILUs continue to enhance their outreach and programming for Métis families, ensuring they have access to holistic, culturally appropriate support during their healing journey.

FILUs are funded through the Federal Victims Strategy’s Victims Fund, with a 2023 commitment of $37.3 million over five years and $7.5 million annually on an ongoing basis. In 2024-25, almost $6 million was accessed by provinces and territories for the delivery of FILUs.

• Following the input provided by an advisory committee comprised of First Nation, Métis and Inuit advocates and victim services providers, stakeholders, and partners, Justice Canada launched the SIVC initiative in 2024-25, with an open call for proposals (CFP).
• Following the open CFP, 42 projects were approved for funding over five years starting in 2025-26.

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 17.28 by increasing services and supports that are designed for Métis victims and survivors. It expands Indigenous-led victim services that align with Métis perspectives and realities. Métis families, survivors and communities benefit through improved access to justice, healing, and advocacy tailored to Métis cultural needs.

• Métis-specific supports: Enhances victim services and supports that reflect Métis cultural identities and lived experiences.
• Increased access to justice: Increases access to Métis-specific, culturally safe victim services and supports.
• Long-term funding stability: Ensures sustained investment in programs that uplift and protect Métis victims and survivors.

Budget 2023 allocated $38.6 million over five years (2023–28), with $8 million ongoing. Through these investments, the federal government has committed to expand and strengthen Indigenous-led victim services, and to support partnerships to increase access to justice for Indigenous victims and survivors of crime within the criminal justice system. Ongoing federal funding ensures that Métis organizations can continue to deliver culturally relevant, community-based victim support services and build partnerships with others working in the justice system to better support victims and survivors. In 2024-25, just over $3.5 million was approved to support Indigenous-led approaches to support Indigenous victims and survivors of crime.