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High Prairie School Division students are busy learning about Métis culture this week. Traditional Métis homeland included all of Alberta and two prairie provinces, bits of two other provinces, and one territory. Our school division includes Métis students from East Prairie Settlement, Gift Lake Settlement, and Peavine Settlement.
The Métis flag, featuring a white infinity symbol, represents the coming together of two vibrant cultures, European and First Nation, and is the oldest patriotic flag Indigenous to Canada. It predates the Canadian flag by about 150 years.
Fiddle music and Red River jigging are an integral part of Métis culture. Traditionally, fiddle tunes would be passed down from generation to generation, similar to storytelling.
The Métis sash is a brightly colored, hand-woven wool belt and a widely recognizable symbol. Historically worn by men, it functioned as a clothing accessory and multi-use tool.
Floral beadwork and embroidery are celebrated Métis traditions. In fact, the Métis were called the "flower beadwork people," referencing this distinct art. Métis dot art is a contemporary beadwork form that replaces beads with paint.
Michif is the traditional Métis language, a mixture of French and Cree dating back to the 1800s. Many Métis people also speak Cree.
Learnings and activities throughout the week include a trapping presentation with Elder Herman Sutherland, Métis dot art, moose skinning and cutting with Knowledge Keeper Ramzey Zallum, pemmican making, Métis governance, Métis colours beaded key chains, a moccasin craft, yarn sashes, land-based dry meat making, and a Rupertsland luncheon for student programming awareness.