week 6

Week 6: The Métis

Who are the Métis

• The term "Métis" is derived from the French word meaning "mixed" or "mixing" (métissage).

• Initially, it referred to mixed-race children of French men and Indigenous women.

• Descendants of English or Scottish men and Indigenous women were referred to as "half-breeds" or "country born".

Métis Language and Culture

• The Métis have a unique culture characterized by mixed heritage.

• The term "Small 'm' and Big 'M' Métis" is often discussed.

  • Small 'm' Métis: refers to commonly understood mixed people.

  • Big 'M' Métis: signifies a recognized Indigenous identity stemming from their own political, linguistic, and cultural practices.

• Métis identity is built upon ongoing kinship relations with other Indigenous groups, such as the Cree, Saulteaux, Assiniboine, and Dene.

Bison and Fur Trade Economy

• The fur trade played a significant role in the Métis economy, connecting them to both French and Indigenous cultures.

• The Acadian Métis history is rich, with links to Mi'kmaq and Maliseet communities formed through marriage and integration.

• French fur traders maintained familial ties with Indigenous women, emphasizing both trade and romance.

• Women's contributions in the fur trade encompassed social and practical aspects, aiding in trade dynamics.

• The adoption of mixed clothing styles among the Métis created a distinctive cultural identity.

Métis Nation

• The Red River region was the epicenter of Métis culture and identity, particularly in the early 19th century.

• The community evolved with unique cultural traits and distinct practices concerning buffalo hunting and fur trade.

Contemporary Métis

• The Métis continue to advocate for recognition and rights, marking a shift from earlier resistance movements to constitutional recognition.

• The 1982 Constitution Act recognized Métis rights alongside other Indigenous groups through Section 35.

• Recent advancements include the Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty, allowing for self-governance and institutional development in Métis communities.

• Historical events, including the Red River and Northwest Resistances, played significant roles in shaping Métis identity and governance frameworks.