Métis citizens and families from across the Georgian Bay area gathered to celebrate Powley Day on September 19, bringing together four Métis Community Councils for a day of community, culture and connection.
The celebration welcomed approximately 200 registered attendees and featured activities for all ages, including games, vendors, music and a chance for children to interact with farm animals.
The event also featured a community fish fry prepared by the Great Lakes Métis Council, while the Georgian Bay Métis Council provided hot dogs for attendees.
“Seeing all four councils come together and nearly 200 people enjoying the day was wonderful,” said Greg Garratt. “It was a great opportunity for our community to come together. We look forward to making this an annual regional event.”
Powley Day, observed annually on September 19, marks the anniversary of the 2003 Supreme Court of Canada decision in R. v. Powley. The ruling affirmed the constitutionally protected harvesting rights of Métis people under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, following a decade-long legal battle led by the MNO, Steve and Roddy Powley, and the Sault Ste. Marie Métis community.
The celebration marked the first gathering of its kind for the Georgian Bay Métis community, with organizers hoping to build on its success in the years ahead.
The MNO extends its thanks and congratulations to all four councils, organizers, volunteers and community members who helped make the event a success.