Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture
No Longer Forgotten
Considered the “Pow Wow” of Métis communities, Rendezvous are some of the largest gatherings in Métis culture.
Throughout generations, Métis Peoples have gathered to socialize, reconnect, pass down traditional knowledge and language skills, and compete in fun competitions such as traditional fiddling, jigging and log splitting. However, the impacts of colonialism have led to the suffering of Métis identity and a loss of connection to community and culture.
As one of the few opportunities for these communities to gather and reconnect, revitalizing the role of Rendezvous in modern Métis life is key to strengthening cultural identity. The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is bringing together Métis citizens from across southern Ontario for the first-ever regional Rendezvous. Spanning from Windsor to Niagara, this unprecedented gathering will host incredible artisans, dancers, language speakers, Knowledge Keepers and any Métis individuals seeking to reconnect. By gathering Métis citizens together, it will help revitalize a cultural sense of pride and connection that has been missing within the community
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) understands that all Indigenous Peoples and cultures deserve to be recognized and celebrated. That is why the IRF is contributing funds to help cover honorariums, travel, supplies and event logistics to ensure the first regional Rendezvous is successful and transformative for Métis communities.
The Métis have been called the ‘forgotten people’ and have often felt misplaced in where their culture belongs and what spaces they are allowed to take up. As the MNO and other provincial Métis organizations work to encourage self-pride and revitalize traditional identities, Métis individuals are reclaiming their inherent right to exist, be heard and be self-governing. Reintroducing Rendezvous is another step along that journey.
Diocese of London
