Our culture is the cornerstone of who we are as Métis people. It defines us in every way from the food we eat, to our languages, arts and music. Preserving our Métis culture and sharing it with our youth and children is more than a goal for BCMF, it is to prevent our extinction.
Traditional Foods
Traditional foods are a great way to experience our culture. As hunters and gatherers, we were known for the Bison hunt, as well as traditional foods such as Pemmican. We were farmers and also used my traditional plants in our foods. Download BCMF Elder Betty Fisher’s Bannock Recipe here.
Michif Language Revitalization Project
BC Métis Federation is proud to be in partnership with Heritage Canada on a new Michif language initiative entitled, Revitalization of Our Michif Language Project in BC.
The Michif language heavily influenced our Métis culture. BC Métis Federation recognizes the integral importance of the Michif language, which is at risk of being lost forever.
"Critically Endangered"
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) reports that three-quarters of Indigenous languages in Canada are “definitely”, “severely” or “critically” endangered. Michif language is in the critically endangered category.
To learn more about the Michif Language project, contact Jeanie Cardinal, or view our project page here.
