Ontario K–8 curriculum · Glossary

Métis communities

Definition

Métis communities are groups of Métis people who share a common history, culture, and often a specific geographic area.

The Red River Settlement in what is now Manitoba was a large, important historic Métis community.

How to teach this in 30 seconds

Try this analogy: A Métis community is like a big neighbourhood where people share special stories, music, and ways of doing things.

Ask your child: What special traditions does our family or neighbourhood have?

Common mix-up: Kids might think Métis communities only existed long ago. These communities have a long, rich history and continue to be vibrant and active today.

Examples

  • The community of Batoche in Saskatchewan is another important historic Métis homeland.
  • Gatherings where families share stories, music, and food are an important part of Métis community life.

Métis communities is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.

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