Métis Veterans honoured in private service at Batoche

Press Release

November 8, 2022 – Batoche, SK – Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) hosted an intimate ceremony today to honour our Métis Veterans. The event was livestreamed to allow all citizens of the Métis Nation to pay their respects. This is the second year MN–S has held an Indigenous Veterans Day service at Batoche.

Today’s service, which included the Act of Remembrance read in Michif by Métis Veteran Felix Merasty, in Cree by Elder Josie Searson, and in English by John Belanger, took place at the Batoche monument – a place of remembrance for our fallen Métis heroes. The lighting of the ceremonial eternal flame began the service.

MN–S President Glen McCallum said, “Métis people have a long history of answering the call to take up arms in defense of our rights, our families, and our country. It is important to remember and honour the legacy and commitment of our Métis Veterans. The monument at Batoche recognizes their sacrifices and allows us to remember them always.”

MN–S also paid tribute to the contribution of Métis women in Canada’s war efforts. Métis women played an essential role in some of the country’s most significant battles and many have been decorated for their service.

MN–S leaders were joined by representatives from all regions of the province in the laying of the wreaths.

With every threat that has faced our country and her allies, Métis men and women have joined non-Indigenous enlistees in the call to protect and defend. Yet, the Métis involvement was not properly recognized until 2019. Today, the MN–S Veterans Ministry remains committed to working with government partners to ensure respectful commemorative events take place in Métis communities in Saskatchewan, and that monuments are erected to reflect our soldiers’ sacrifices.

Kaayaa chi Waaniihkayaahk – Lest We Forget. Miwī Wihkats kawaniskisinaw – We shall never forget.

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About Métis Nation–Saskatchewan:

Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) is built on a foundation of Métis identity, culture, values and language. Empowered by the Métis citizens of Saskatchewan, MN–S works to advance Métis rights and strengthen capacity. MN–S represents the political, socioeconomic, cultural and educational interests of more than 80,000 Métis in the province through an elected representative system at local, regional and provincial levels. Social Media Links: @MNSask, @metisnationsask

For media inquiries:

Rena Montgomerie – MN–S Senior Communications Officer
r.montgomerie@mns.work or 306-250-1092

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