Special statement from President David Chartrand on allegations against retired priest Arthur Masse

June 22, 2022

Winnipeg, MB, in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis - Today, the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), the National Government of the Red River Métis, also known as the Manitoba Métis, is announcing our intent to undertake an independent investigation into the actions of Arthur Masse, a retired priest who spent time in many communities in Manitoba, including the Red River Métis villages of Duck Bay and Camperville.

In his time, Mr. Masse spent an estimated 20 years in our community churches, presiding over services and ceremonies. During this time, Citizens in these communities would have received both group and one-on-one tutoring and teaching from this individual.

In light of these allegations against Mr. Masse, it is critical that we undertake an independent investigation to understand if Mr. Masse’s activities in our communities resulted in any incidents related to his alleged misconduct. Our independent investigators will be mandated to speak directly with those who interacted with him in our communities, to understand the full scope of Mr. Masse’s relationship with our Citizens, including any incidents that should have been brought to the attention of authorities.

I can assure our Citizens and all Manitobans that we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to investigate and uncover any incidents involving Mr. Masse and our Citizens. We will share the findings of our investigation with the correct authorities to ensure they have a full picture of Mr. Masse’s interactions with our Citizens, and that they are accounted for in the process of seeking justice.

-30-

Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis.

The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) is the democratically elected National Government of the Red River Métis, also known as the Manitoba Métis, the origin and core of the Métis Nation. The Manitoba Métis are Canada’s Negotiating Partners in Confederation and the Founders of the Province of Manitoba.

For more information, media may contact:
Kat Patenaude
Media Relations Advisor
Manitoba Métis Federation
204-801-7710
Kat.Patenaude@mmf.mb.ca

NT5