Canada – October 20, 2026 -- Métis governments used the inaugural Métis Policy Forum to name renewal of the Canada–Métis Nation Housing and Homelessness Sub-Accord a pressing priority, and to commit to renewed intergovernmental working groups on housing.

The forum brought together Métis governments from across the Homeland, along with Métis youth, Elders and veterans. It was set up as a non-political space for shared policy work, with each participant keeping its own rights, jurisdiction and governance authority.

Participants demand long-term, distinctions-based housing funding

Participants called for long-term, predictable, distinctions-based funding. They specified flexible program design, pre-development support for smaller Métis governments, and investments suited to northern and rural communities.

They also argued that spending must cover the entire housing continuum. That includes maintaining and preserving existing housing stock to protect long-term affordability for Métis families.

Technical sessions target barriers and federal initiatives

Leadership dialogue, technical working sessions and knowledge-sharing sessions examined common barriers and emerging federal initiatives. The stated aim is to align efforts so Métis housing priorities are reflected in national policy and funding decisions.

Participants said that partnerships with federal, provincial and territorial governments, expanded capacity supports, and evidence-based technical collaboration with Canada will be critical to Métis-led housing solutions.

Métis National Council limits its role to logistics

The Métis National Council convened the forum and provided logistical and administrative support only. Participating Métis governments and organizations led all policy discussions and outcomes. The council said it will support future forums built around priorities the participating governments identify.