Heritage Matters
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The Métis Nation of Ontario Canoe Expedition is an interdisciplinary model of experiential learning; challenging and rewarding
students as they gain important and transferrable skills, knowledge and abilities. Eight Métis youth from eight communities
around the province participated. The project raised awareness for Métis culture and traditions. After three weeks of
cultural heritage education and canoe expedition training, the voyageurs launched on May 26, 2014, from Ottawa.
Their 2000-kilometre route took them through 23 communities on their way to Thunder Bay, which they reached on
August 22. These eight youth shared their heritage in the form of traditional Métis dress, storytelling, games, music
and jigging. In 2015, the Canoe Expedition was recognized with a Lieutenant Governor's Ontario Heritage Award for
Youth Achievement. Photo courtesy of Métis Nation of Ontario
