Introduction
Métis people continue to experience disproportionate and adverse impacts within the justice system. The Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs works to improve justice outcomes for Métis people across British Columbia while supporting the revitalization of Métis justice traditions, laws, and legal principles.
The Ministry advocates for the justice needs of Métis people throughout B.C. Guided by the recommendations of the Métis Justice Strategy, we apply a trauma-informed approach that recognizes and respects the strengths, dignity, histories, lived experiences, and intersecting identities of Métis people. These diverse experiences enrich our Nation and inform our work.
We are building a strong foundation for culturally safe and accessible justice services while helping to restore pathways for resolving justice matters that are grounded in Métis teachings, values, and traditions passed down through generations.
Our current priorities focus on advancing systemic change and expanding culturally safe, accessible justice programs and services for Métis people in B.C.
Key Areas of Focus
- Policing and community safety
- Youth justice
- Adult corrections
- Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG)
- Restorative justice
- Métis law and justice revitalization research
- Law and policy reform
Justice issues are deeply interconnected with other social and community priorities. We recognize that important justice-related work is also led and supported by other MNBC Ministries, including Children and Families, Women and Gender Equity, Poverty Reduction, Health and Wellness, and Rights, Research and Consultation.
Please note: MNBC’s Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs does not provide legal representation, legal aid, legal advice, or funding for legal representation. If you would like assistance connecting with external justice programs or services, please contact justice@mnbc.ca.
Métis Justice Strategy
The Métis Justice Strategy was co-developed with the Province of British Columbia and informed by engagement with Métis people throughout the province, as well as the insight and guidance of the former Justice Council.
We thank MNBC Citizens and communities for their contributions and ongoing commitment to improving access to restorative justice supports grounded in Métis values, traditions, and ways of knowing and being.
Implementation of the Métis Justice Strategy is currently underway in partnership with the Province of British Columbia. This work falls within the mandate of the Minister of Justice and the Associate Minister of Justice and is informed by the advice and expertise of the Métis Justice Services Advisory Committee.
Resources
Internal Resources
Métis individuals can search culturally relevant programming, funding opportunities, bursaries, resources, and supports through MNBC’s Programs and Resources page. Due to funding limitations, eligibility for some MNBC programs and services may be restricted to MNBC Citizens.
If you are interested in obtaining MNBC Citizenship, our Citizenship Navigators can help guide you through the application process.
External Resources
The Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs has compiled a list of external justice resources and supports. While we strive to identify resources that are accessible and culturally appropriate, individual experiences may vary.
If you have questions about external justice resources or would like to share your experience accessing justice supports, please contact justice@mnbc.ca.