The Metis Alliance of Canada Cooperative (MACC), formally known as the Indigenous Republic of Kanata was formed on Jan 3, 2020. It’s vision was to create an organization that could unite all 3 groups of Indigenous People in Canada, so that together, they could have a stronger voice politically and more independence economically. As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic soon after, the newly formed organization was quickly halted due to health and safety concerns.
Since then, the pandemic has passed, but there was little progress until early in 2024, when Metis Governments began to show signs of collapse, and First Nations and Metis relations began to weaken, leading to lost confidence in leadership, and a need for better representation. With these developments, a new movement was on the rise, an alliance of Metis from the east which was excluded in the past, as well as Metis from the west which sought to support those in the east, in order for both to have greater mobility, a stronger voice and gain an advantage through a larger truly nationwide collective like that of First Nations.
This led to the search for an organizational model that gave its members true voting rights and more say in how the organization was managed. Metis also demanded better transparency and accountability in order to prevent conflicts of interest, and misappropriation of funds. Ownership was also important to the members in order to secure financial independence in the future. In order to meet all these needs amongst others, the co-operative model seemed to be the best fit once again due to the fact that it is governed under strict laws set by The Co-operative Act of Canada.
This led to the re-establishment of the Indigenous Republic of Kanata Cooperative, which amended it’s name to Metis Alliance of Canada Cooperative, and changed directors in September of 2024. It’s membership includes all Metis People in Canada that are the descendants of the First People and settlers who were regarded as a separate people, and whom often were fisherman, or the coureur de bois and voyageurs of the fur trade.
Under MACC, our members enjoy many benefits and are not only part of a cultural organization that serves as a representative body that will consult with government on behalf of them, but they are also owners of all the cooperative assets which may include land and real property, businesses, and other investments that support our communities as well as fund programs (educational, cultural, legal) for it’s members. Most importantly, MACC is proud to provide a safe space for all our people to practice and celebrate their culture and connect with other Metis without discrimination. This is how we are making a difference.
MACC Board of Directors
