Kevin Henry Platform
Kevin Henry’s vision for the Métis Nation Saskatchewan focuses on empowerment through professional governance, cultural preservation, and holistic community revitalization. Together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future for the Métis Nation!
Kevin Henry’s Leadership Vision for Métis Nation Saskatchewan
Kevin Henry is dedicated to securing the leadership of Métis Nation Saskatchewan (MN-S) with a vision that is both empowering and transformative for our Métis citizens. Recognizing the critical role that MN-S plays as the government representing Métis people in Saskatchewan, Kevin aims to enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness of this institution to better serve our communities.
Understanding the Governance Structure
Métis Nation Saskatchewan operates under the guidance of the Métis Nation Legislative Assembly (MNLA), which serves as the governing authority. The MNLA is composed of the Presidents of Métis Locals and the Provincial Métis Council. Within this framework, the MNLA possesses the authority to enact legislation, regulations, rules, and resolutions that govern the affairs and conduct of Métis people in Saskatchewan.
This legislative assembly is a forum for collective decision-making, ensuring representation for diverse voices within our communities. Kevin believes in the paramount importance of this structure and is committed to ensuring that it reflects the needs, desires, and aspirations of Métis citizens throughout the province.
Kevin Henry’s Leadership Goals
Strengthening the Métis Nation Legislative Assembly (MNLA)
- Enhancing Representation: Kevin aims to ensure that every voice within our communities is either represented or has a channel to influence decisions made by the MNLA. By empowering local leadership, he will foster a stronger connection between the assembly and the Métis citizens it serves.
- Streamlining Legislation: Initiatives will be taken to simplify legislative processes to make the MNLA more efficient in enacting laws that are necessary for the well-being and advancement of Métis communities.
Promoting Transparency and Accountability
- Transparent Governance Practices:Kevin is committed to fostering a culture of open governance within the MN-S. This involves making meetings, decisions, and policy development processes accessible and understandable to all Métis citizens.
- Accountable Leadership:Under his leadership, he will implement mechanisms to hold accountable those in leadership positions, ensuring they act in the best interests of the Métis populace.
Community Engagement and Empowerment
- Local Engagement Initiatives: Kevin will prioritize grassroots involvement by organizing regular town hall meetings, workshops, and community forums that allow Métis citizens to express concerns, share ideas, and actively contribute to governance.
- Youth and Elders Advisory Councils: Establishing councils that include both youth and elders to ensure that the wisdom of our past and the visions of our future are integrated into decision-making processes.
Legislative Innovation
- Culturally Relevant Legislation:Kevin will advocate for the development of laws and resolutions that are steeped in the traditions and values of the Métis culture, ensuring that all legislative efforts honor and preserve our rich heritage.
- Focus on Key Issues: Prioritizing legislation that addresses vital issues such as healthcare, education, economic development, and land rights, fostering a sustainable future for Métis communities.
Advocacy and Partnerships
- Strengthening External Relations: Kevin will work relentlessly to build strong partnerships with other governments, organizations, and academic institutions. This collaborative approach will provide access to more resources and support for Métis initiatives.
- Raising the Profile of MN-S: By elevating the visibility and voice of MN-S in local and national conversations, Kevin aims to advocate effectively for the rights and needs of Métis citizens.
Child, Youth, & Family Department
- The Child, Youth, & Family focus is to provide Metis families with resources and safety knowledge for all Metis children, and families; advocacy and education will be available through events, online discussions, and easily accessible resources.
Platform Overview
Professionalizing Politics and focusing on Metis Rights
Kevin Henry’s Commitment to Professionalizing Politics for Métis Nation Saskatchewan:
Kevin Henry envisions a transformative approach to governance in Métis Nation Saskatchewan (MN-S), emphasizing the need to “professionalize politics” to better serve the Métis citizens. This initiative aims to create a political landscape characterized by ethical standards, transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Below are the key components of this strategy:
- Implement a robust framework designed to ensure ethical, transparent, and accountable governance that prioritizes the needs of our community while reflecting the deeply rooted values inherent in Métis culture. Emphasizing integrity and openness in political dealings will help to cultivate trust among citizens.
- Foster an inclusive leadership environment where the voices and opinions of every citizen are genuinely heard and valued. This ensures that diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas significantly shape our collective future, allowing us to build stronger, more resilient communities together.
Kevin and his team will focus on the following seven strategies:
1. Negotiating Settlements (Distinct from Treaties)
- Strategically negotiate with both the federal and provincial governments to secure fair settlements on behalf of all twelve regional nations of the Métis. This will be a significant step in asserting Métis autonomy and recognition, allowing us to regain our rightful place in the governance landscape.
- Commit to maintaining the cultural integrity of our discussions, advocating steadfastly for the preservation of Métis traditions, rights, and heritage at every negotiation table to ensure our unique identity is respected and upheld.
2. Hunting and Fishing Guidelines
- Conduct thorough and comprehensive research while engaging with environmental and cultural experts to develop sustainable hunting and fishing guidelines that resonate with and respect Métis traditions and practices. Ensuring these activities are carried out sustainably is crucial for future generations.
- Advocate for the establishment of Métis-specific hunting and fishing rights, funded by the Métis Nation Saskatchewan (MN-S). Collaborate closely with provincial wildlife organizations to ensure that these rights are not only recognized but enshrined into policy, preserving our long-standing connection to the land and our traditional practices.
3. Returning Batoche to Western Region 2
- Champion efforts aimed at officially restoring Batoche to the governance of the Métis Nation’s Western Region 2, fully recognizing its historical significance and cultural importance as a foundational centerpiece of Métis heritage and identity. Such a move would symbolize a reclamation of our history and rightful governance.
4. Education and Cultural Preservation & History
- Implement culturally relevant education programs that prioritize the teaching of the history, rights, and traditions of the Métis people, as envisioned and passed down by our ancestors. These programs will serve as vital tools for fostering a sense of pride and identity among our youth.
- Support various initiatives geared towards the preservation of the Métis language and cultural practices within both our education systems and local communities. By embracing our history, we will better equip future generations to carry forward our rich cultural legacy.
5. Exoneration of the Treason-Charged Families
- Advocate for the formal exoneration of the twenty-four Métis families who were wrongfully charged with treason during historical conflicts. These families suffered unjust consequences for their beliefs and actions, and it is imperative to right these historical wrongs.
- Collaborate with experienced legal experts and historians to build a compelling case that not only calls for justice but also recognizes the invaluable contributions of these families to our society and heritage.
1. Louis David Riel — Hung
2. Alexander Cayen — 7 Years
3. Philip Guardupuy — 7 Years
4. Maxime Dubois — 7 Years
5. Maxime Lapine — 7 Years
6. Philip Garnot — 7 Years
7. Pierre Vandal — 7 Years
8. Pierre Henry — 7 Years
9. Albert Monkman — 7 Years
10. Pierre Parenteau — 7 Years
11. James Shark — 7 Years
12. Baptiste Vandal — 7 Years
13. Alex Fisher — 3 Years
14. Pierre Guardupuy — 3 Years
15. Moise Oulette — 3 Years
16. Joseph Arcand — 1 Year
17. Ignace Poitras Sr. — 1 Year
18. Ignace Poitras Jr. — 1 Year
19. Moise Parenteau — 1 Year
20. Joseph Delorme
21. Alexander Lobenibarde
22. Joseph Pilon
23. Baptiste Rocheleau
24. Petrie Tourond
25. Frances Tourond
6. Métis Registry Governance
- Ensure that the Métis registry in Saskatchewan accurately reflects the heritage and lineage of original Métis families, acknowledging and respecting their unique histories. This will further enhance our community’s integrity and identity.
- Establish transparent and inclusive practices for validating Métis ancestry and membership, reinforcing our commitment to authenticity and inclusivity as we move forward together.
7. Rebuilding Métis Communities
- Invest strategically in nurturing vibrant and self-sustaining Métis communities through dedicated efforts in crucial areas such as housing, education, healthcare, and economic development. A comprehensive approach is necessary to address the diverse needs of our communities.
- Tailor programs and initiatives to honor both traditional practices and contemporary needs, ensuring a holistic approach to community rebuilding that respects the past while being forward-thinking.
Campaign Action Plan
Kevin Henry’s Campaign Action Plan for Leadership of Métis Nation Saskatchewan:
Kevin Henry is running for the leadership of Métis Nation Saskatchewan (MN-S) with a comprehensive action plan designed to engage citizens, promote transparency, and enhance the effectiveness of governance. This action plan outlines strategies for community engagement, policy development, and organizational improvements to create a strong foundation for his leadership.
Team Building
- Assemble a diverse and robust campaign team made up of advisors specializing in various fields including policy development, community outreach, media relations, and logistical coordination. This multidisciplinary team will bring together a wealth of experience and expertise.
- Hire a dedicated research consultant to ensure the accuracy of the historical and legal references related to Métis rights and heritage utilized throughout our campaign, thus enhancing our credibility and trustworthiness.
Community Engagement
- Organize a series of town hall meetings across key regions to actively engage with Métis citizens, solicit valuable feedback, and reinforce the notion of a community-driven campaign that reflects the collective voice of our people.
- Utilize social media platforms extensively to engage with our youth and reach remote communities, ensuring our message resonates across diverse demographics and reaches every corner of our society.
- Develop and provide culturally sensitive materials and communication strategies that truly reflect the values, needs, and aspirations of Métis communities, fostering a sense of belonging and ownership in the electoral process.
Policy Development
- Create detailed and well-thought-out proposals concerning the negotiation of settlements, hunting/fishing guidelines, and initiatives specifically related to the Batoche community, ensuring every aspect is meticulously considered.
- Actively collaborate with Métis elders, historians, and community leaders in the development of these proposals to ensure they are deeply grounded in cultural wisdom and reflect genuine community input, fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration.
Advocacy and Partnerships
- Build essential strategic relationships with both federal and provincial leaders to advance and advocate effectively for the rights of the Métis people, ensuring our voices are heard in the halls of power.
- Partner with academic institutions and research organizations to bolster initiatives aimed at the preservation of Métis culture, history, and identity, creating a network of support that enhances our vision for the future.
“WE NEED LEADERS NOT IN LOVE WITH MONEY BUT IN LOVE WITH JUSTICE”
