Okotoks Town Council has proclaimed that the third week of November will be recognized annually as “Métis Week” in Okotoks. This year, it will be November 12 to 18, and include Louis Riel Day on November 16. This dedicated week acknowledges and celebrates the Métis people and their culture, history and achievements.
Métis people are often referred to as the “Children of the fur Trade,” emerging in the early 1700s as a distinct people with their own culture, language and socio-political practices. Today, the Métis people play an important role in the founding and development of our social, cultural and political landscape.
The Métis Nation flag will be raised at the Okotoks Municipal Centre on Sunday, November 12 to mark the beginning of Métis Week in Canada; the flag will remain raised until November 18. The Municipal Centre building lights will also be illuminated in blue from November 12 to 16. Although there will not be a public ceremony for the flag raising, there will be two opportunities to honour and learn about Métis people and culture on November 16.
Louis Riel Day and Métis Blessing – Rotary Performing Arts Centre (RPAC), November 16, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
The Town will honour Louis Riel Day as a part of Métis Week with a Métis Blessing led by Métis Knowledge Keeper and Elder, Ila Vivier. This public event will also include opening remarks from an Okotoks Elected Official and the District Captain of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (OMG) of the Métis Nation within Alberta Rocky View District #4, Amber Boyd. There will also be a Métis jigging demonstration. Learn more about Louis Riel Day and Métis Blessing.
The Importance of Métis Week and Louis Riel Day – a Presentation from Métis Scholar, Reagan Markwell – Okotoks Public Library (program room), November 16, 5-6:30 p.m.
Join us for a presentation from Métis Scholar, Reagan Markwell, on the intention of Métis Week and the importance of Louis Riel Day. This will be open to the general public and will include opening remarks from an Okotoks Elected Official. This event is free, but you must register to attend as there is limited seating available. Light refreshments will be provided. Find event details and registration information.
The Town is honored to devote this week to recognizing the sacrifices of the Métis as they continue to strive towards achieving rights and recognition as a distinct nation, while also celebrating the meaningful accomplishments and contributions of the Métis people.
To learn more about the Town’s Métis Week proclamation, visit www.okotoks.ca/proclamations.