Image
Summary
The Metis Nation of Ontario is looking back at the recent 2018 Infinite Reach March Break Camp with the release of a video made by the students who attended to celebrate the Métis way of life and learn about post-secondary opportunities.
The camp was held March 11 to March 15 at the Canadian Ecology Centre in Mattawa, Ont. The Métis students were from Grades 10, 11 and 12 who worked with Infinite Reach Facilitators, upper year post-secondary students, who assist new students adjust to university and college life.
The camp provided an opportunity for youth from across Ontario to meet, share new experiences and connect to Métis traditions.
“A lot of Métis youth feel disconnected from their culture and it’s very helpful for them to have a place to come to learn these things,” said Kaitlyn Anderson-Mitchell, a Grade 11 student from London, Ont., who is also part of the MNO Thames Bluewater Métis Council.
“Traditionally they would just be taught by their parents and grandparents — not everyone gets that opportunity. So it’s great for youth to be able to come here and learn these things.”
Finger weaving, beading, making leather moccasins, jigging, playing historical games and taking in presentations from Elders about trapping and maple sugar tapping were among the cultural activities over four days.
MNO President Margaret Froh attended the camp.
“This camp is a celebration of who we are as Métis people, to share and experience our culture and traditions here in what is an absolutely beautiful area,” she said.