Great Lakes Métis Council hosts 20th Anniversary Fish Fry
Under the blazing summer sun and sheltered by tents, the Great Lakes Métis Council (GLMC) prepared over 150 lbs of rainbow trout for their cherished annual fish fry. This year’s event was especially significant, celebrating the council’s 20th anniversary and honouring the legacy of former Council President Peter Coture.
The celebration took place along the shore at the Hibou Conservation Area in Owen Sound, land once owned by Peter’s great-grandfather, where the Coture family had lived for generations. The Couture family and the Community Council are now working to establish new relationships, including with the local municipality, to have the area’s Métis history recognized.
Métis stories have often been overlooked. Today, the GLMC is amplifying their voices, calling for more education and recognition of the Métis presence in areas like “Mudtown,” a former settlement for Métis. This call for action includes the installation of a “Families of Mudtown” plaque to commemorate the Métis presence in the area.
The community gathering was initiated by Peter two decades ago. Peter aimed to create a space for citizens to be on the land and with one another. “I wanted to show people how we lived off the land,” says Peter. “And show that we aren’t just taking things and not giving back. We want [these resources available] for our grandkids and great-grandkids.”
When Peter first organized these events, offering burgers and hot dogs, 15-20 people attended. Now, he estimates attendance has grown to around 300. “People come and see what’s going on, and revisit,” he comments. “It’s really to show others how we get along, how we work with others, and being open and transparent with our relationships and partners.”
For years, the Cotures and the Community Council have been building partnerships, including early collaborators like Bruce Power, Grey Sauble Conservation, game wardens, and local leadership. Artists and vendors are now invited to share the space, and their stories and creations with the community. The MNO Lands, Resources, and Consultations (LRC) branch also participates, providing education to children and families about ongoing ecosystem and water monitoring research and offering ways to get involved.
“It’s important that we get the young ones involved in this work,” says Peter, gesturing to the many children attending the event. “We wanted to make it family-friendly so that they’re likely to remember and return to events in the future. It’s all about relationships and our connection to the land. This year we even rented out kayaks so families could be out on the water appreciating nature.”
After stepping down as President, Peter’s son, Chris Coture, stepped up and is currently Interim President of the GLMC.
“This whole event, including its popularity, is really a result of my father’s commitment to the community, his resilience, and his work ethic,” says Chris. “The fish fry has evolved into so much more than a community feast; it’s revitalizing a space for our people where we can be together.”
GLMC Senator Ralph Thistle also attended the event, bestowing Peter with a special Saint Boniface sash and a carved wooden box for storage. After making his remarks, he announced that the fish fry would receive a new name: the Coture Homestead Fish Fry.
The MNO applauds the GLMC and the community for their outstanding work, as their heartfelt celebration honoured the history, and enduring legacy of the Métis people in Ontario.
Hungry for more on this story? Get a flavour for the fish fry with this “Métis Minute” episode created by Samantha Loney, Region 7 Métis Nation of Ontario citizen and journalist with Simcoe Community Media: Metis Minute: 20th Annual Great Lakes Metis Fish Fry
