Editor’s note: Banner image of a Métis sash courtesy of Laura Golebiowski.
Written by: Laura Golebiowski, Indigenous Consultation Advisor
On November 16, 1885, Métis leader and Manitoba founder the Right Honourable Louis Riel was executed in Saskatchewan, after he was charged with six counts of high treason. Now, annually, Albertans are invited to mark the sombre anniversary of Riel’s death and recognize the broader histories, sacrifices and accomplishments of the Métis Peoples. This year, Métis Week takes place November 12 – 18, 2023.
Youth, educators and the general public are encouraged to further their learning through Rupertsland Centre for Teaching and Learning resources, which include live online events most days of Métis Week. The live program includes jigging, red river cart stories and Michif language learning—in addition to the interactive resources, printables and videos accessible year-round.
The St. Albert-Sturgeon County Métis Local and the City of St. Albert will be holding a flag raising and proclamation ceremony on November 16 at 2:00pm at St. Albert place. On November 13, Métis Week opening ceremony activities will take place at Calgary City Hall all morning and early afternoon.
Visit the Métis Nation of Alberta or the Métis Settlements General Council (did you know that the eight Alberta Métis Settlements are the only collectively-held Métis land base in Canada?) websites to learn more about Métis heritage, contemporary initiatives and cultural events held throughout the year.
If your community has a Métis Week 2023 event you’d like us to know about, please leave a comment with the details.
RETROactive 
Heritage House is proud to launch a new book about the late Premier Peter Lougheed and his family’s Métis heritage during Métis Week. The event will take place at Lougheed House on November 18. Details at lougheedhouse.com