MNO citizens Marg Raynor (left) and Pauline Richardson
(right) pose with Samuel de Champlain (portrayed by
Daniel Marchildon).Submitted by Region 7 Councillor Pauline Richardson and Senator Dr. Alis Kennedy, O. ONT.,CD, OMC
Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizens were invited as special guests to several events celebrating the 400th anniversary of Samuel de Champlain’s arrival in Ontario.
The events took place between July 31 and August 2.
Region 7 Councillor Pauline Richardson, Marg Raynor, Senator Dr. Alis Kennedy, O.ONT., CD, OMC, and MNO Veterans’ Council Secretary Greg Garratt represented the MNO in Midland and Penetanguishene at various events.
A dinner gala took place on July 31, where two MNO
Greg Garratt and Alis Kennedy. Senator Kennedy attended
all the events during the weekend’s celebrations. canoes were on prominent display on each side of the stage on location. The gala, hosted by Minister of Francophone Affairs Madeleine Meilleur, took place in Penetanguishene.
On August 1, after a re-enactment of Champlain landing in Ontario, MNO representatives were present during the unveiling of a historical plaque. The plaque was presented to Ontario by Québec Premier Philippe Couillard, commemorating Champlain’s arrival in Ontario and thus bringing the francophone presence to the province.
The unveiling of the plaque was witnessed by Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, Quebec Minister responsible for Canadian Intergovernmental Affairs and the Canadian Francophonie Jean-Marc Fournier, Minister Madeleine Meilleur, Huron Chief Jean-Luc Sweet and Samuel de Champlain himself, played by actor Daniel Marchildon.
The plaque is on display at Fort Sainte-Marie among the Hurons in Midland.