Steve Powley – Métis, forced Ontario to recognize Métis

For decades Métis people in Sault Ste. Marie were denied the right to hunt.

In 1993 Steve Powley decided to test the law.

He shot a moose out of season, and instead of presenting a license, he gave authorities his Métis card.

The case went to court. Ontario argued there were no Métis in the province.

Powley argued historic Métis communities had existed prior to the birth of Canada in 1867, and continued to exist today.

In September 2003 the Supreme Court recognized the Métis community of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and their constitutionally protected Aboriginal right to hunt for food.

The case set out the roadmap to recognize other communities in Ontario, and other Métis rights.