On October 19, 2024, the Métis Nation in Sault Ste. Marie celebrated a historic milestone with the grand opening of the Sault Ste. Marie Métis Heritage Centre. This event marked the realization of years of hard work and dedication, and the Centre stands as the first of its kind in Ontario—a cultural hub designed to preserve and celebrate Métis heritage for generations to come.

A Celebration of Resilience and Culture

The Centre is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of resilience, community, and pride, and its opening day was a powerful reminder of the deep history that Métis people have in the area.

Located in the heart of Sault Ste. Marie, the Centre serves as a gathering point for the local Métis community and offers a variety of cultural and educational programs. It also features a makers’ space, where local artisans can craft traditional works, a gift shop to showcase their creations, and exhibits that tell the story of the Métis in Ontario.

The grand opening ceremony, which began at 1:00 PM, was a vibrant celebration of Métis history and community. Samantha Case, Chair of the Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Council, spoke to the Centre’s role as “a permanent home for the stories, traditions, and contributions of our Métis community—a legacy for future generations.”

Honoring the Past

Mitch Case, PCMNO Region 4 Councillor, emphasized the importance of recognizing the Métis’ long-standing connection to Sault Ste. Marie. For generations, the Métis in the region have maintained a distinct way of life, deeply rooted in the fur trade, fishing, hunting, and political self-determination. Case recounted key moments in the community’s history, such as the Métis participation in the Mica Bay Incident of 1849 and their role in shaping the region’s economy and culture.

He also highlighted the hardships the community faced, from the Crown’s failure to uphold its promise of land rights in the 1850s to the devastating loss of Métis homes in Agawa Bay in 1968. Despite these challenges, the Métis community in Sault Ste. Marie persisted, standing up for their rights and maintaining their cultural identity.

A Testament to Perseverance

The creation of the Centre is a testament to the community’s resilience. Councilor Case spoke passionately about the determination it took to transform three old buildings into a thriving cultural space. Over seven years of planning, fundraising, and overcoming setbacks, the Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Council persevered, demonstrating a commitment to preserving their heritage for future generations.

This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless work of the Council members, who volunteered countless hours and raised millions of dollars in funding. The Centre also received significant financial support from various organizations, including the Métis Nation of Ontario, Heritage Canada, and local partners. Together, they invested in a project that not only celebrates Métis heritage but also contributes to the local economy, creating jobs and promoting tourism in Sault Ste. Marie.

A Bright Future for Métis Heritage

Following the ceremonial ribbon cutting, led by President Margaret Froh, guests were invited to explore the Centre. The exhibits provide a comprehensive look at the history of the Métis in the Sault, from the fur trade era to the modern-day Métis rights movement. Elders from the community were given the first tour, allowing them to see the physical embodiment of the stories and traditions they’ve preserved for so long.

The Centre will also serve as home base for Métis Tours, a tourism venture that offers year-round walking tours and summer canoe tours. This initiative, a partnership between the Huron-Superior Regional Métis community and the Lake Superior Watershed Conservancy, will help bring Métis stories to visitors from around the world.

This Centre is more than just a museum; it’s a living, breathing part of the community. It will host workshops, meetings, and social gatherings, providing a space where Métis can come together to celebrate their shared history and where others can learn about the richness of Métis culture.

A Community United

The grand opening was not just a celebration of the past but a step forward into a new era of self-determination. As Mitch Case remarked, “We are writing the next volume of our history right now.”

“With the establishment of the Centre, the Métis community in Sault Ste. Marie is leading the way in preserving its culture, advancing its rights, and contributing to reconciliation efforts with other communities in the region.”

The Centre is an investment in the future, not only for the Métis people but for all of Northern Ontario. It represents a powerful commitment to preserving local heritage, promoting economic development, and ensuring that Métis culture continues to thrive.

A Moment to Remember

The day concluded with an evening reception at the Delta Waterfront Hotel, where guests gathered to reflect on the significance of the Centre and the incredible journey that led to its creation. The opening of the Sault Ste. Marie Métis Heritage Centre marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Métis Nation and beyond, ensuring that the stories, traditions, and contributions of the Métis people will continue to inspire future generations.