Knowledge Holders Discuss the Métis Way of Life

by Dr. Brian Tucker, Manager of Métis Traditional Knowledge and Land Use

Participants in the Knowledge Holders Forum: Back row (l-r): Senator Bob McKay,
William “Torch” Gordon, Brian G. Tucker, Senator John George, Leon Fleury, David Bell,
Ron O’Connor, and Joe Paquette. Middle row (l-r): Kate Stewart-McNeil (MNO staff),
Dorothy Huitikka, Rene Vanasse, Sandra Triskle, Flo Robin. Front row (l-r):
Senator Cecile Wagar, Rita Vanasse, Claire Kearns, Carol Holland.
Missing from picture but also in attendance: Alma Adams, Jerry Adams, Eli Adams,
Greg Renaud

On March 27 and 28, Métis knowledge holders from across the province gathered in Thunder Bay for a Métis traditional knowledge forum. This was an opportunity for knowledge holders to meet and discuss points of common interest around traditional knowledge.

The knowledge holders shared their thoughts on traditional plant use; the best way to share knowledge with youth; the preservation and sharing of Métis traditional knowledge; and, the importance of Métis traditional knowledge to the Métis “way of life”.

The thoughtful contributions and discussion offered by the knowledge holders during this event will be used to help guide the preparation of upcoming elder-youth traditional knowledge sessions being planned by the MNO Lands, Resources and Consultations Branch within the Way of Life Framework (WOLF). The LRC Branch, working with MNO communities and knowledge holders, continues to actively collect, preserve and share Métis traditional knowledge in order to protect and promote the way of life for the benefit of all Métis.