10. Young and Metis

What does it mean to be a Metis youth? Metis youth face the same challenges and obstacles as Aboriginal youth, but do not have access to the same benefits that status Aboriginal youth have. In addition to the challenges of racism, health, and education issues; the Metis youth face the lateral oppression of other Aboriginal Peoples. There are Metis organizations that are working towards improving access to services and education for Metis youth. There are also schools such as the Gabriel Dumont Institute in Saskatchewan where a student can learn the Red River jig and the Michif language for university credits. There are plenty of organizations and schools to help Metis youth with the struggle of identity, but are they doing the job? This episode of Venturing Forth will take a look at the pride that some young Metis role models feel in their culture and who have found a strong sense of identity despite what the government and society has done to push the Metis out. We will also examine the issues of identity crisis that the Metis face and how various youth approach the question of what it means to be young and Metis.

Locations: Saskatoon and Prince Albert, Saskatchewan