Métis Music Van

The Métis Music Van was created during the COVID-19 pandemic. Minister Alfred 'Buck' Anderson, the Vice-President of the Interlake Region and the Minister of Culture & Heritage at the Manitoba Métis Federation had a vision to bring music to the people, since we couldn't gather during the pandemic. Minister Anderson envisioned bringing joy and brightening the days of citizens during the lockdown, which he then turned into his fulfilling reality.

"I love to make people happy. I started driving the Métis Music Van during the pandemic to bring people together in a socially distant way. I didn't think it would go this far," Minister Anderson said. "I've won three separate awards in Selkirk, which means a lot to me, and it means a lot to the community to be recognized in the schools by the younger generation."

The Métis Music Van is a way to promote and revitalize the Red River Métis culture and heritage while instilling a sense of Red River Métis pride within the community. What started off as a gesture to uplift the people's spirits during the pandemic has now developed into many requests for the Métis Music Van to attend parades, festivals, fairs, schools and special celebrations throughout the province. Minister Anderson has also honoured a Citizen's wish by having the Métis Music Van present at a funeral.

The Métis Music Van is the focal point of a mural located at the corner of Robinson and Main Street in Selkirk, titled "The Beat Goes On". This mural shows different cultures connected by music and dance.

For inquiries on booking the Métis Music Van, please contact cultureandheritage@mmf.mb.ca.