Celebrating Culture, History, and the Significance of Trapper’s Tents
Métis Week, held annually in November (Nov. 10-16, 2024), is a time to honour the rich culture, heritage, and ongoing contributions of the Métis people to Canada’s history. It offers an opportunity for communities to learn more about the Métis Nation, celebrate its traditions, and recognize the strength and resilience of the Métis in the face of adversity. At EPL we are excited to join in the celebration by hosting a variety of events and displays to immerse our community in Métis culture. We acknowledge that we are located on North Saskatchewan River Territory and Métis Districts 9 - Fort Edmonton (south of the river) – and 10 – Edmonton Whitemud (north of the river).
Who Are the Métis People?
The Métis are a distinct Indigenous people with a unique heritage, language, and way of life that emerged from the intermarriage of European fur traders and First Nations women. Their origins trace back to the Red River Valley and the Canadian prairies. Recognized as one of Canada’s three distinct Indigenous groups under the Constitution Act of 1982, the Métis people have a vibrant culture and history that continues to shape Canadian society today.
Métis Week at EPL
One of the highlights of Métis Week will be the setup of a traditional Métis trapper’s tent from Thursday, Nov. 7 to Tuesday, Nov. 19 at our Stanley A. Milner Library, generously on loan from Métis Child and Family Services. Located in front of The Wall, we invite you to drop by anytime during regular library hours to explore Métis heritage and culture. The tent invites the public to come explore and learn more about Métis culture and serves as a window into the way of life that Métis people have practiced for centuries. It allows us to reflect on the land where the Stanley A. Milner Library resides and recognizes Edmonton's history as a fur trading fort and a Métis settlement. Throughout the week, we will also be hosting special programming and interactive activities around the tent, offering deeper insights into Métis traditions and practices.
We also invite you to join us for these special events at the Trapper’s Tent:
- Story Stop, Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 2:15 p.m. - Story Stop | Events | Edmonton Public Library (bibliocommons.com)
- Story Stop, Friday, Nov. 15 at 2:15 p.m. - Story Stop | Events | Edmonton Public Library (bibliocommons.com)
- Four Lodges Indigenous Art and Cultural Society of Alberta will be offering pre-registered beginners beading workshops and mini pop-up Floral Métis Beadwork displays. For more information and to register, please visit Events | Edmonton Public Library | BiblioCommons
More Métis Resources
Métis Nation of Alberta has a list of events and resources for Métis Week here
Rupertsland Institute has a list of online events and educational resources here
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