Batoche, Saskatchewan, July 24, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — President Caron of the Métis National Council spent the morning in a ceremony with hundreds of Métis from across the homeland at the Batoche National Historic Site in Saskatchewan. The cemetery procession and commemoration of the Métis soldiers who fell at the Battle of Batoche in 1885 is one of the most important annual events for the Métis nation.

“These lands at Batoche hold incredible power for the Métis,” said President Caron. “Here our ancestors shed blood with and for each other to create a more just society for all people. Today, as I reflect on that love and sacrifice, surrounded by so many resilient Métis citizens, I cannot help but feel inspired to continue our just common struggle for lasting justice and material justice.”

This procession and commemoration concludes the 50th anniversary of Back to Batoche Days, a celebration of Métis culture that drew record numbers.

During Friday’s opening ceremony, President Caron addressed Métis from across the Homeland and shared that “many of us know in our minds and hearts that this place – Batoche – is an incredibly special place for the people of Métis… This place brings us together, it connects us.”

President Caron will now travel by bus to Edmonton with Métis Survivors to witness Pope Francis’ penitential pilgrimage to Canada.

“As we embark on this important next step on our common journey of truth, justice and healing, I ask that we keep Métis and all survivors at the forefront of our thoughts and prayers,” added President Caron. “The Pope’s visit and the expected apology for the Catholic Church’s role in the boarding school system will mean different things to many people. It is important that we respect all of these deeply personal meanings and are fully committed to supporting all survivors on their individual healing journeys…