UCalgary hosts leading historian in Métis Studies for Celebrate Métis Week

The insights of a leading scholar on the history and 20^th century contributions of Métis people in Canada will highlight UCalgary’s celebration of Métis Week, Nov. 10 to 16.

The Office of Indigenous Engagement has invited special guest Dr. Allyson Stevenson for its Celebrate Métis Week webinar on Nov. 14 from 12 to 1:30 p.m. Based on her research, Stevenson, from the Gabriel Dumont Institute, will share a presentation titled Métis Communities in the West: Policy and Place.

Stevenson is the Gabriel Dumont Research Chair in Métis Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. Her research program seeks to build a comprehensive history of the diverse Métis communities that emerged in western Canada in the 20^th century, looking at scrip records, homestead records, and government documents along with oral histories. 

This profoundly important period witnessed the cultural, political and collective re-emergence of a devastated people — a time when Métis leaders went on to transform the intellectual, cultural and political landscape of Canada.  

Métis Week in Alberta is an opportunity to delve into the colourful history and multifaceted heritage of the Métis in Canada.  In honor of Louis Riel, Métis Week is a both a celebration of Métis culture and an occasion to learn more about the complex role and ongoing contributions of the Métis.

On Nov. 16, 1885, Métis leader Louis Riel, who led the Red River and North-West Métis resistance in defence of Métis rights, was executed for treason in Saskatchewan. To coincide with Louis Riel Day, the Métis Nation of Alberta has declared the week surrounding the anniversary of Riel’s execution as Métis Week, a time to honour and pay tribute to Métis cultural heritage. This year, Métis Week in Alberta will see several celebratory gatherings and learning opportunities taking place.

UCalgary welcomes Elder Doreen Bergum for opening prayers to start us off in a good way. The presentation and discussion will be moderated by Gerald Ratt, specialist, Indigenous Intercultural Initiatives for the Office of Indigenous Engagement.

The webinar will be presented virtually via Zoom, please register here