March 16, 2022 (Surrey, BC) - Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) is increasing direct access to Métis culture with the creation of the Métis in BC exhibit and video series. MNBC partnered with Parks Canada to produce the exhibit, which can be found at Fort Langley's National Historic Site. Langley Township is located on the traditional unceded territories of the Katzie, Kwantlen, Matsqui and Semiahmoo First Nations.
Advancing the cause of Métis cultural awareness is a critical strategic goal of MNBC’s Cabinet and MNBC has made a commitment to the preservation and revitalization of Métis culture.
“The loss of Indigenous culture is unfortunately prevalent all over the world today. It is important that we celebrate our culture and continue to educate people about the richness of who we are as Métis people. Not only in Canada, but now with the power of social media and the internet, we can also share it with the world,” says Patrick Harriott, MNBC’s Minister of Culture, Heritage and Language.
The Métis in BC video series includes an introduction to Métis history and segments on Métis Music & Dance, Traditional Craftsmanship, Beadwork, Connection to the Land and Knowledge Carriers/Keepers. The videos feature Métis artists, craftsmen, historians, and Elders who each share their knowledge and experiences of being Métis in BC.
Métis have a long history in B.C., going back to the 1700s, and the creation of this project demonstrates the distinct, diverse, and rich culture of Métis peoples. It also serves as a resource tool to educate the broader public, and our own people.
“Every person in the province and Canada should be aware of who the Métis are, however, there is a severe gap for educational resources,” says Debra Fisher, MNBC Minister of Education. “This project aims to be a place where anyone can find art, music, and cultural programming, diversifying the educational material that is currently available and offered.”
The exhibit includes five handcrafted Métis kiosks that visitors can use to watch each of the video segments. The Métis kiosks were designed and built by Métis Artists Lisa Shepherd and Patrick Calihou. The kiosks were inspired by the content from the Métis in BC video series and infuse both traditional Métis beadwork and Métis craftsmanship.
Having the Métis in BC video series available online is an excellent adaption for the COVID-19 response and will increase access from beyond the visitor experience at Fort Langley's National Historic Site by offering online Métis programming for individuals, families, and schools across Canada. It is important that this knowledge is transmitted throughout our communities and within schools to preserve our Métis culture for future generations.
A strong digital presence is key to creating the opportunity for people to connect to and experience Canada's Métis cultural heritage in ways that are meaningful to them. As a part of the exhibit's launch, MNBC is launching the #MétisInBC hashtag to encourage Métis Citizens across BC to share what it means for them to be Métis in our province. Over the coming weeks, months, and years, MNBC will utilize the hashtag to tell stories of Métis unique to BC, and encourages Citizens across the province to do so too.