Prince Albert Police Officer Dean Smith helped lead the grand entry. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Celebrating culture

Back to Batoche Days returns bigger and better

Jul 19, 2024 | 5:00 PM

Our Moment to Shine is a fitting theme for this year’s Back to Batoche Days, given the hot temperatures expected all weekend.

From humble beginnings, the event has noticeably grown in size, and Métis Nation—Saskatchewan President Glen McCallum is excited about the potential turnout for this weekend.

“Three years ago it was 20,000 and last year it was 40,000, and I don’t know what the number will be this year,” he said.

Grand entry and opening ceremonies were held Friday morning and during his address to the crowd, McCallum explained the event represents an opportunity to give back to Métis citizens and share their identity, culture, values, and language with others.

“In the last seven years alone, we have built ourselves up to be a reputable voice and partner in this province, revitalized our Michif language, reintroduced bison to our lands at Batoche, and embarked on our own, made-in-Saskatchewan Treaty – Kishchi Mashinaayikun Ooshchi Michif – the Sacred Document from the Michif,” he said. “We’re bringing nations together and working as one, the way our ancestors did.”

'Personal electronic device policy'

When it comes to banning cellphones, the P.A. kids are not alright

11h ago

HWY Upgrades

Cockrill provides update on infrastructure plans

12h ago

TOWN SEWER

Battleford plans new storm sewer replacement to support growing population

Sep 04, 2024

MNS President Glen McCallum presenting a gift to Lt. Gov. Russ Merasty. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

Also during the opening ceremony, Parks Canada and MN–S renewed their commitment to work towards co-management of Batoche National Historic Site, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.

The co-management agreement will lay out how Parks Canada and the MN–S will work together to enhance the visitor experience; preserve and showcase Métis history, culture, language and heritage; raise public awareness and appreciation; and improve cultural resource and ecological conservation.

MN–S Vice President and Minister of Lands and Environment Michelle LeClair explained the MN–S government has made a concerted effort to focus on the preservation and restoration of their lands, culture, tradition, and Michif language throughout the province, and in particular at Batoche.

“All of our programs and services speak to the sense of pride we have as Métis people and our willingness to foster good relationships with our partners,reengage our youth, make important connections between children and Elders, and reinvigorate our natural surroundings,” she said.

Since the last Back to Batoche Days, MN–S has made significant investments in infrastructure upgrades at the festival site. Among the improvements are new bathrooms and showers, more electrified camping, an overhaul at the racetrack, and walkway repairs.

The signing ceremony. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

Northern Prairie Dancers gather for a group photo. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

Northern Prairie Dancers, who have travelled and competed all over North America, were also a part of the opening ceremonies.

“Square dancing and jigging plays a large role at this special festival and to be shoulder tapped to participate is an honour,” said manager Modeste McKenzie.

Saskatchewan Country Artist J.J. Lavallee also picked a fitting place to debut his new single “Welcome to Batoche.”

MN-S Glen McCallum told reporters every story told with respect to Métis people is beautiful, and applauded Lavallee for telling it through song.

A few hockey greats, including Bryan Trottier, were a part of grand entry. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

Visitors to the site can try their hand at some challenging games. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell