Sask. Mtis nations gather for annual Back to Batoche [Video]

Métis nations from across the country, along with thousands of attendees, have come together for a half-week of music, entertainment, and celebration of Métis culture at the annual “Back to Batoche” festival.

“Just like any other get-together, it’s very nice to be back in the homelands and learn! Because it’s not a very well-known heritage,” Chris Vanvedore, a vendor at the event said.

The festivities kicked off on Friday with an opening ceremony. Dignitaries from federal, provincial, Métis, and First Nations organizations spoke about current affairs, bridging divides, and strengthening the Métis community.

Glen McCallum, president of the Métis Nation Saskatchewan, emphasized the importance of these gatherings.

“There’s a lot more conversations to be had with the Métis people right across our province. It’s a very good start though. It shows the evidence is there to be able to see the happiness and the true spirit of the Métis coming …