Traditional Knowledge Fish Camp with Elders & Youth – Thebacha (Short Summary)
The FSMC and AAROM/NWTMN hosted a two-day Elders & Youth Fish Camp in Thebacha, bringing together youth, Elders, and community members for cultural learning on the land. Despite bear activity and rough river conditions that prevented net setting, the camp successfully adapted. Whole Whitefish and Pickerel were purchased from Hay River fishers to ensure hands-on learning could continue, allowing all to practice traditional fish preparation and preservation methods.
A Fish Cleaning Station, led by Louie Beaulieu and Ethan Gillis, taught youth how to fillet, clean, and prepare fish for smoking, drying, and pan-frying. These lessons strengthened practical harvesting skills while reinforcing Métis values of respect, resourcefulness, sustainability, and ethical harvesting. Youth also practiced rod-fishing from shore, learning casting, reeling, and patience on the land.
Elders played a central role throughout the camp, offering oral storytelling, teachings on respecting the land and animals, seasonal knowledge of fish runs, and cultural legends. A river boat tour with Earl Evans, Ken Hudson, and Ethan Gillis provided teachings on local waterways and Métis history. Elders Richard and Barb Mercredi shared stories about Métis fishing traditions and the Red River cart fish trade, helping youth understand the historical and economic importance of fishing within Métis culture.
Youth also took part in berry picking, medicine plant walks, and fish-scale art and crafts with Gwen Pischinger and Louise Beaulieu, blending creativity with traditional land-based learning.
Together, these activities combined traditional knowledge, cultural storytelling, and hands-on skills, helping youth deepen their connection to the land, water, and Métis heritage.
Elders Gathering – Thebacha (Short Summary)
The FSMC and AAROM/NWTMN hosted a two-day Elders Gathering in Thebacha, bringing together over 30 Elders for food, storytelling, and cultural connection. Fresh fish was provided by the FSMC Environment Crew and Elder Leonard Desjarlais, keeping traditional foods at the heart of the gathering. Elders spent the weekend visiting, crafting, sharing stories, enjoying meals, and taking part in a lively cribbage tournament. The gathering was a remarkable success, reminding everyone that connection and shared experience are at the heart of Métis life and culture. This event embodied the true spirit of community, coming together, and celebrating the wisdom of our Elders.
