Then and Now: The Inspiration of Métis Decorative Arts
“Then and Now: The Inspiration of Métis Decorative Arts,” curated by Métis citizen Scott Carpenter, is on display at the
Midland Cultural Centre until January 4, 2025, showcasing traditional and
contemporary Métis decorative arts. Scott is a proud Métis citizen and has been a long-time collector of a cross-section of Métis decorative arts with pieces sourced from friends, family, auctions,
and antique dealers. Each artifact tells a unique story, and together they contribute to a broader narrative of Métis culture. “Each [individual] piece tells a story and the collection of pieces as a
whole tells a larger piece of our story,” he comments. “In some cases, I know the story; in other cases, I only know part of the story. For instance, a pair of beaded gauntlets from the 1800s may
tell a story of being beaded from the light of a candle or oil lantern during cold winter evenings.”
He especially admires the craftsmanship, resourcefulness and ingenuity of these Métis ancestors, honoring their stories and legacy through the Then and Now exhibition. “[The display] really highlights
how amazing our ancestors were,” he says. “Their dedication and determination were so admirable. We get our strength from them!”
Scott hopes attendees leave with a greater understanding about the Métis people in general, and develop an appreciation of the beautiful work that our ancestors created and we continue to create.
For Métis attendees, he hopes the exhibit inspires pride and encourages citizens to continue sharing their stories.
“The vibrant history of the Métis in Penetanguishene as part of the Upper Great Lakes Métis Community is not as well-known as it should be,” says Scott.
“But, I hope that Métis citizens hold their head high and are proud of who we are! And they are inspired to keep telling our stories!”
“Then and Now: The Inspiration of Métis Decorative Arts,” exhibit runs until January 4, 2025. The MNO encourages the community to come out, show their support, and keep sharing stories!
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Fall Vaccine
Not sure which vaccines to get this Fall? Check out this infographic for more information on seasonal respiratory viruses like the flu, COVID-19 and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
If you’re an MNO citizen 60+, you can receive the RSV vaccine for free! Talk to your health care provider or your local public health unit to learn more:
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COVID-19 Pandemic
The Mental Health of Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Citizens Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted mental health worldwide. Many people faced fear due to the rapid spread of the virus,
experienced lockdowns and other restrictions, and endured economic shifts that contributed to heightened anxiety, depression, and stress.
Data collected during the pandemic revealed that six out of ten Indigenous people reported a decline in mental health. However, there is
limited data specifically addressing the mental health and wellness of Métis people.
To address this gap, the Métis Nation of Ontario conducted a study with two main objectives:
Analyzing changes in the use of mental health and addiction services by MNO citizens from 2017 to 2022, using comprehensive population data.
Gathering personal experiences of MNO citizens during the pandemic and exploring its impact on their mental health through sharing circles and interviews.
Key Findings:
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, visits for mental health and addiction services increased by 13% compared to expectations.
• Women and older MNO citizens (ages 65 and above) utilized these services more frequently than younger citizens and men.
Common themes from the sharing circles and interviews included:
• Disruptions to health and other essential services due to COVID-19, highlighting existing gaps in service accessibility.
• Strong emotions such as frustration, overwhelm, and fear.
• The importance of wellness within family and kin networks, and the challenges posed by disrupted connections.
• Métis wellness, which encompasses cultural, emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health.
“As it progressed, then I started to feel the effects of isolation and grief. And grief on a couple of levels. One was a grief for the things that no longer were in life.
And grief, because, as people were passing on, there was no closure. Because, everything changed from the way that we used to get closure. And that was… I found that very difficult.
And actually, I would say, even today, it plays a part. It has alleviated for sure, because some of the restrictions have been lifted. I remember strong feelings as I realized this
is this new universe that I’m living in, so to speak. And I didn’t relate to the world I was living in. I felt untethered. I felt like I was floating out there and didn’t understand any
longer this universe.”
— Participant 4
These findings underscore the need for culturally relevant mental health support tailored to Métis communities, as well as ongoing monitoring of mental health trends.
The results will be instrumental in advocating for continued and increased investment in Métis-led mental health services, as well as in preparing for future pandemics.
Métis Stories [ September 02, 2024 ]
Métis history is rich with pivotal moments where Métis fought to defend our inherent rights, including self-government. Let’s celebrate our shared journey! Which Métis stories inspire you?
Read these stories here.
Amanda Rheaume [ August 29, 2024 ]
Award-winning sing-songwriter, proud Métis citizen, and composer of the “We Aspire”, the Métis Nation of Ontario song, Amanda Rheaume, needs your help!
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MNO Volunteer of the Year 2024 [ August 26, 2024 ]
Kim Powley is the 2024 MNO Volunteer of the Year! With over 20 years of service, Kim’s impact on the Métis community is unmatched.
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MNO AGA [ August 19, 2024 ]
This month, MNO citizens, dignitaries, and guests convened for the Métis Nation of Ontario’s 31st Annual General Assembly (AGA) in Penetanguishene. At the AGA, progress was announced regarding the MNO’s “Revitalizing Our Stories, Histories, Alliances, and Relationships” resolution.
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