Fort St. John Métis Society looks to gather delegation for national event

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The local organization dedicated to Métis culture and traditions is seeking to form a delegation to send members to a event for the first time.

The Fort St. John Métis Society (FSJMS) is seeking to organize a delegation to a national Métis gathering called ‘Back to Batoche’ taking place in July.

The village, situated midway between Prince Albert and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is the location of the battle between the Métis people and the federal government, during the north-west rebellion, also known as ‘Riel’s Last Stand.’

The Battle of Batoche lasted from May 9th to 12th, 1885 and led to Métis leader Louis Riel’s surrender and eventual execution. 

Batoche was made a national historic site by Canada in 1923.

Bailie Copeland, director and grant writer for the FSJMS, told Energeticcity.ca about the town’s significance.

“We [have] managed to work really hard, fundraise a lot, and come up with a little bit of funds so that we could send a group,” said Copeland. “It is a common request from our membership, especially the elders. They are always interested in going.”

The FSJMS will seek to send around 20 members to the event, which will feature chuckwagon races, an Indian relay race, jingle dancing, fiddling and more.

To attend, members must be up to date with their dues and in good standing. Membership for the FSJMS costs $10 per year.

Copeland said she “would like to attend” but is unable to do so this year due to other commitments.

“It’s a long drive, so they have to be prepared for that trip,” said Copeland. “There’s some pretty amazing stuff. [Attendees] will learn lots of stuff they might not know.”

The Return to Batoche takes place from Thursday, July 16th to Sunday, July 19th in Batoche, Saskatchewan.

Applicants can submit their entries, with people selected to attend based on specific criteria. It includes whether attendees will be part of a carpool or taking their own vehicles or RVs.

Members can find out more by emailing fsjmetis@telus.net.