TYRMC hosts winter rendezvous for Métis families
Métis families came together for a memorable winter rendezvous filled with connection and Métis activities, hosted by the Toronto and York Region Métis Council (TYRMC) over the weekend of February 21–22.
Workshops included beading, canning, finger‑weaving, jigging, and the crowd‑favourite snowshoe sled‑pull. o view the full weekend agenda, click here.
TYRMC Senator Paul Irvine shared, “The Rendezvous is an opportunity for the citizens of the Toronto and York Region Métis Council to come together, share good times, good food, and reconnect. I was really looking forward to the food, and it hasn’t let me down. Nookomis Kitchen has made all of the meals, and it has been wonderful to enjoy.”
During the event, several MNO booths were set up for citizens to connect directly with programs and services, including Self‑Government, Healthy Babies, Healthy Children, Community Wellbeing, the MNO Great Lakes Advisory Board, and the Advocacy Program.
At the Great Lakes Advisory Board booth, Senator Kevin Rath (Thames Bluewater Métis Council) emphasized the value of hearing directly from citizens.
“It is important to reflect our entire community’s interests and priorities into the work that we do. Having this information helps us to understand and address issues the region is facing.”
Saturday featured the inaugural snowshoe sled pull, with gold and silver medals awarded and prizes for all participants. TYRMC, Programs & Communications Coordinator Atika Irvine-Tench shared that her father, Paul Irvine, handcrafted the sleds and painted them with the Métis infinity symbol.
The snowshoe sled‑pull showcased Métis athleticism across all age groups, with families cheering on every team as participants raced through the snow. Teams navigated deep snow, snowshoes, and a sleigh on a two‑way track to take the win.
Another highlight of the weekend was the eagerly anticipated Saturday night performance by award‑winning Métis singer‑songwriter Amanda Rheaume and her band.
Before Amanda began her set, MNO President Margaret Froh shared the following remarks: “Amanda Rheaume has been doing such a beautiful job sharing our nation’s stories through her music. What a wonderful opportunity to hear some of our stories again and have a whole lot of fun.”
And a whole lot of fun is precisely what families had. Citizens jigged, played their spoons, and celebrated together throughout the evening — and that sense of wonderment and appreciation carried throughout the entire weekend.