Identity is Sacred

A vibrant and unique culture, Métis are often a forgotten subset of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

For young people, finding opportunities to learn about distinct Métis culture and language is difficult, leading to a loss of pride in their Métis identity. For those in the Niagara, Ontario region, early cultural programming only exists for youth under 12. The Niagara Region Métis Council has seen how youth who age out feel a disconnection from culture, community, and Métis identity at a time when belonging matters most.

In June 2024, the Council changed the narrative, launching the Niagara Region Métis Youth Group to support Métis youth aged 13–17. For the past two years, this group has been helping young people connect with peers, learn about the Métis way of life, participate in Michif language preservation, and learn land-based skills. For many, this group is the only space where they can learn Métis culture alongside peers their own age, speak Michif words, and explore Métis history in ways that feel alive, relevant, and meaningful.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is contributing funding to help expand programming capacity. This important space has become integral to building pathways for dialogue and connecting Métis youth with Elders, Knowledge Keepers and spiritual leaders. It is a point of pride in the region and a cornerstone of intergenerational learning and community building. The IRF has seen the work the Niagara Region Métis Council has delivered previously and is honoured to help it continue expanding its initiatives to ensure all youth feel supported and proud of being Métis. 

Diocese of St. Catharine’s