Proclamation and Flag Raising Ceremony Commemorates Métis Week
Posted on: Nov 18, 2015
Edmonton, AB – Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Métis Albertans gathered at Edmonton City Hall at noon today for a proclamation and flag raising ceremony in celebration of Métis Week. The ceremony is hosted annually by the Métis Nation of Alberta and the City of Edmonton to proclaim the week surrounding November 16th as Métis Week.
MNA dignitaries including President Audrey Poitras, Region 4 President Cecil Bellrose, and Region 4 Vice President James Atkinson attended today’s ceremony. President Poitras stated that “The annual flag raising and proclamation ceremony is symbolic of the MNA’s commitment to working together with the City of Edmonton to promote Métis rights and wellbeing.” President Poitras encourages all Albertans to enjoy Métis Week and learn about the unique Métis culture and heritage. MNA Region 4 President, Cecil Bellrose, remarked that “Métis Nation of Alberta Region 4 is enthusiastic to host another flag raising and proclamation ceremony at Edmonton City Hall. It is through these commemorative events that the significant contributions of Region 4 Métis Albertans are recognized.”
The event was attended by dignitaries from all levels of government including Randy Boissonnault, MP for Edmonton Centre; David Sheperd, MLA for Edmonton-Centre and Tony Caterina, Councillor for Ward 7 of the City of Edmonton. All dignitaries pledged their commitment to building a positive nation to nation relationship with the Métis Nation of Alberta.
An Honour Guard of Métis Veterans and Edmonton City Police escorted event participants outdoors to the community flag pole to witness the raising of the Métis infinity flag around 1:00 pm. The flag raising was accompanied by a rendition of the Métis National anthem, Proud to be Métis, by singer Sarah Wolfe who also sang O Canada at the beginning of the ceremony.
Entertainment for the day was provided by Prince Charles student fiddlers. The large group of 50 students took to City Hall and played traditional Métis fiddle music in addition to some revamped rock tunes including I Walk the Line by Johnny Cash.
Media Contact
April Magee
Communications Officer
Métis Nation of Alberta
Tel: 780-455-2200
Email: amagee@metis.org