Ray Girard singing and dancing next to fiddler Anthony Brascouper during the
National Aboriginal Day celebration in Ottawa.
On June 21, Métis from across the homeland celebrated National Aboriginal Day, a day to celebrate culture and heritage and to remember the contributions made by Aboriginal peoples to Canada.
In Ottawa, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Ottawa Regional Métis Council celebrated at the Summer Solstice Aboriginal Arts Festival held in Vincent Massey Park.
It was a beautiful sunny day to share Métis culture and heritage. The Council has held National Aboriginal Day celebrations for the past 14 years and as Ray Girard explained, the sun has always been shining.
Granddaughter of Carmen Pregent, Anabelle Prieur with MNO Senator Reta
Gordon.
The day’s events included a wholesome meal of vegetarian chili, banana cake and freshly picked strawberries served my council members, volunteers and MNO staff. People from many different backgrounds enjoyed the food, so much so that there was none left to spare.
As the day progressed, attendees enjoyed the musical talents of Anthony Brascouper and Ray Girard. The two played traditional Métis music for the enjoyment of all.
Volunteers serving food to attendants of the Summer Solstice Aboriginal Arts
Festival.
The event was the first time the local Ottawa Métis had the opportunity to celebrate with the First Nations and Inuit communities. It was made possible due to the dedication of the volunteers and a successful proposal submitted for funding.