A resolution put forward at the Annual General Assembly of the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) on Oct 21, 2024 to end an agreement to establish a partnership for research, education and culture exchange between MMF, Vickar Automotive Group (Vickar Group) and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) was defeated.

The Donor Pledge Agreement between the parties was signed May 2,2023  and MMF President David Chartrand spoke out clearly and  vigorously in advocating for continuing the partnership with  Ben-Gurion University. The Partnership aims to promote cooperation and mutual understanding between the Red River Métis community and the academic community in Israel. The collaboration has focused on research in areas such as health, environment, and social issues, as well as educational and cultural programs. The partnership involves the sharing of resources and expertise, and reflects a commitment to building bridges across cultures and borders

There were some 4000 Metis who registered for the Annual General Assembly, many on two different floors of the Assiniboine Downs, online and in Vancouver, and Toronto.

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At the time the agreement was signed in 2023 ceremony, MMF President David Chartrand said, "This partnership between MMF, the Vickar Group and BGU is a significant step towards advancing research and education in areas of mutual interest. By working together, we can leverage our strengths and expertise to address some of the most pressing issues facing our communities today. We are excited about the legacy opportunities that this partnership will create for our students and researchers."

In speaking against the resolution at the Annual General Assembly on Oct 21, Chartrand noted that the Metis people "ought not to take sides in the conflict" between Israel and Palestine, a conflict that has gone one for over a hundred years and will continue to go on for many more. He was highly critical of Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership but said many in Israel oppose his rule and if there were an election today he would not be elected. He spoke of the fact that Israeli know how and technology 'made the dessert bloom" and the Metis people "could benefit "from this technology.

Chartrand said that the Metis people should try to help both people in Israel and Gaza affected by this war, but this war "is not our business," right now. Advocates of the resolution, who wore keffiyahs around their necks, said that MMF ought to side with the "oppressed" Palestinians against the "oppressor" Israel.

One woman who spoke against the resolution said that the MMF signed  an agreement and ought not to "go against our word" and Israeli students from BGU ought to be able to come here on this exchange program, once travel is permitted again. 

Larry Vickar, who has contributed funds to the partnership said "I am grateful for the visionary leadership of President Chartrand who is committed to seeing the fruits of this beneficial partnership, and has successfully fought back against those who wish to destroy it. The partnership  provides opportunities for  Red River Métis students to engage in international academic exchanges and benefit from the knowledge and expertise of the Israeli academic community. I commend President Chartrand for endorsing a collaboration that will lead to new opportunities for innovation and learning, and have a lasting positive impact on both our communities, and next generations of tomorrow."

Vickar also noted that just as the Metis are an indigenous people so too are Jews indigenous to the land of Israel, and it is fitting that this partnership between two indigenous peoples continue to flourish. 

Andrea Freedman, Executive Director of BGU Canada adds, “ BGU is exceptionally grateful to President Chartrand and Larry Vickar for their vision in creating the project in 2023 and their continued passion and commitment.  Now more than ever, this collaboration is important and meaningful.  President Chartrand demonstrated tremendous leadership and courage and we are grateful to him for his friendship and moral clarity.”