MNO joins Métis governments and communities at Back to Batoche
Each year, tens of thousands gather on the historic grounds of Batoche, Saskatchewan, for Back to Batoche, one of the Métis Nation’s most important cultural gatherings.
The Métis Nation of Ontario joined Métis governments, citizens, families, veterans, and community members from across the Homeland to take part in this year’s gathering.
On Friday, July 17, MNO President Margaret Froh, Provincial Secretaries Mitch Case and Theresa Stenlund, CEO Dale Leclair, and Region Nine Youth Representative Kaitlyn Anderson-Mitchell, and Region 8 Youth Representative Gabrielle Moreau, joined other Métis leaders for the Opening Ceremonies. The day’s events included a traditional lunch of bison cooked in an underground pit shared amongst the community, offering an opportunity to connect and strengthen relationships over a delicious meal.
Throughout the weekend, MNO representatives met with citizens and visitors while taking part in the festival’s many activities and celebrations, including chariot and chuckwagon races, live music, jigging, traditional games, and other cultural activities.
“Seeing Métis culture and way of life celebrated on a national level is always an incredible feeling,” said MNO President Margaret Froh. “While Métis governments across the Homeland are at different stages in their journeys toward self-determination and self-government, fostering strong relationships remains essential. Members of the PCMNO and I were grateful for the opportunity to connect with representatives from Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, Métis Nation British Columbia, and the Otipemisiwak Métis Government during this year’s Back to Batoche.”
Provincial Secretary Theresa Stenlund also reflected on the importance of the gathering.
“Events like Back to Batoche remind us why staying connected to one another is so important,” said Stenlund. “They bring our communities together to celebrate our culture and honour our history.”
One of the most meaningful moments of the weekend was the annual Sunday Procession, an important tradition in which Métis veterans lead participants to the Batoche Cemetery to honour the sacrifices and legacy of Métis ancestors who fought to protect their rights, lands, and way of life during the 1885 Battle of Batoche.
Among those taking part was MNO Veteran Brian Prairie, who carried a flag during the procession in honour of those who came before us.
Each year, people return to Batoche not only to remember what was fought for, but to feel the land, stories, and relationships that continue to carry the Métis Nation forward.