Yvon Dumont facts for kids

W. Yvon Dumont was born on January 21, 1951, in St. Laurent, Manitoba. He is a Canadian politician and a very important leader for the Métis community. In 1993, he made history by becoming the first Métis person to be appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba. This is a special role that represents the King or Queen in the province. He was the 21st person to hold this position.

Yvon Dumont's Early Life and Leadership

Yvon Dumont started working with the Manitoba Métis Federation in 1967. This organization helps and supports Métis people in Manitoba.

Growing into a Leader

By 1972, he became a director for the Interlake region of the Federation. He then became the Executive Vice-President in 1973. From 1984 to 1993, he served as the President of the Manitoba Métis Federation.

National Role for Métis People

Yvon Dumont also helped create the Native Council of Canada in 1972. He was also the President of the Métis National Council from 1988 to 1993. This council works to protect the rights and culture of Métis people across Canada.

He often spoke for the Métis community at important meetings with Canada's leaders. He worked hard to make sure that Métis people had a strong voice in discussions about their rights. He believed it was important for Métis culture to stay unique and not get lost within larger Indigenous groups.

Public Service and Recognition

Besides his work with Métis organizations, Yvon Dumont also served his local community. He was a municipal councillor in St. Laurent, his hometown. He also served on the Board of Governors for the University of Manitoba.

Awards and Honours

Yvon Dumont has received several awards for his dedication and leadership. In 1993, he received a Manitoba Métis Federation Award. In 1996, he was given a National Aboriginal Achievement Award, which is now called the Indspire Awards. These awards celebrate the achievements of Indigenous people in Canada.

Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba

When Yvon Dumont became Lieutenant Governor in 1993, it was a very meaningful moment. It happened at a time when people in Canada were looking at the history of Métis leader Louis Riel in a new way.

Louis Riel's Legacy

Louis Riel was once seen as a rebel. However, many now recognize him as a "Father of Confederation." This is because he played a key role in setting up a government in the Red River Colony, which helped create Manitoba. Yvon Dumont's appointment as Lieutenant Governor showed this new understanding and respect for Métis history.

The Role of Lieutenant Governor

The job of Lieutenant Governor is mostly ceremonial. This means that while it is a very important position, the person holding it does not usually make big political decisions. Yvon Dumont worked with the government of Gary Filmon during his time as Lieutenant Governor.

Later Life and Continued Involvement

In 2001, Yvon Dumont was appointed to the Order of Manitoba. This is a high honour given to people who have made great contributions to the province. He continued to be involved in Métis politics. In 2003, he ran for the leadership of the Manitoba Métis Federation again but was not elected.

Arms

References

• Lt. Governor of Manitoba Official biography: http://www.lg.gov.mb.ca/history/past/dumont.html