Batoche Park
Batoche, Saskatchewan
July 22, 2011
Check against delivery
Tansi, merci, thank you.
Elders, Métis leaders, Métis veterans, honoured guests. I am honoured to be here representing the Government of Canada and the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. It's a privilege to be at this historic site to pay tribute to your Métis ancestors, culture and history.
This is indeed a place steeped in history—a story whose events touch everyone who learns of them. In the battle that took place here 126 years ago, your ancestors displayed an extraordinary courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
For many, the name Batoche has become synonymous with the spirit of the Northwest Resistance, and with the names of legendary heroes like Louis Riel, Gabriel Dumont, Maxime Lépine and Moise Ouellette.
At the Back to Batoche celebrations, you'll be paying tribute both to the inspiring men and women of the Resistance and to the Métis veterans of the two World Wars and the Korean War, some of whom are present at this gathering.
Many Métis walked or rode hundreds of miles through the bush or over rough terrain to enlist in centres in Regina, Calgary and Winnipeg to serve in World War Two. They demonstrated a bravery and sense of purpose as resolute as their ancestors.
Despite many obstacles and hardships over the years, your ancestors strove to keep your language and traditions alive and strong. That's something you'll be celebrating with thousands of people over the next four days as you showcase the many dimensions of Métis culture.
It's because of the dedication and determination of Métis leaders, past and present, that your proud history and traditions will continue to be celebrated and shared among all Canadians. There's no energy in the world like the energy found in the Métis fiddle and the dancers in the Red River jig.
Minister Duncan was delighted to attend the 125th anniversary celebration last year at this same location. It was the biggest gathering at Batoche since the festival began 41 years ago. As Minister Duncan said, right across the country, there is a growing appreciation of who the Métis are and their contributions to Canada. It's an important advancement in our social landscape that is only going to get stronger.
I can assure you that our government will work with you to further Canadians' awareness of your contributions to the history and culture of the nation.
We will also continue to work in partnership with the Métis National Council and Métis associations to address your priorities as set out in the Métis Nation Protocol. These include economic development, strengthening Métis governance and institutions, and acknowledging the contributions of Métis veterans, as well as the issues of Métis former residential school students.
I believe our Department's name change—to Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
—speaks to the Government's focus on moving forward in its ever-stronger relationship with the Métis.
In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all great joy in what you share together at this gathering, which has such deep roots in your ancestors' treasured values and ideals.
Merci, thank you, megwitch.
