23 Advancements for the Red River Métis in 2023

January 15, 2024

_{As we celebrate the remarkable contributions our people made over the course of the year, we look back on 23 outstanding achievements made by Red River Métis Citizens in 2023.}

While reflecting upon the past year, we're eager to showcase the stellar achievements of 23 exceptional Red River Métis Citizens in 2023. Across the Homeland and beyond, Citizens strived for excellence in their respective fields, further adding to our rich legacy. As we celebrate the remarkable contributions our people made over the course of the year, let us look back on 23 outstanding achievements made by Red River Métis Citizens in 2023.

23. Red River Métis author completes trilogy

_{In September, Red River Métis author Katherena Vermette published The Circle, the final instalment in her The Break trilogy. Photo credit: Vanda Fleury.}

In 2023, Red River Métis author Katherena Vermette concluded her impactful novel series set with The Circle, which is the final piece to her other bestsellers The Break and The Strangers. This final instalment explores themes of restorative justice and healing in the aftermath of an assault by two young individuals, addressing serious topics such as assault, intergenerational trauma, and Indigeneity. Vermette also released an omnibus edition of her graphic novel series A Girl Called Echo, which combines all four graphic novels into one, showcasing Vermette's adept storytelling and commitment to addressing societal issues.

22. Athletes shine at Canada Winter Games

_{Red River Métis athletes Dylan Weiss and Aaron Riehl (pictured) participated in the 2023 Canada Winter Games in Prince Edward Island.}

Red River Métis athletes Dylan Weiss and Aaron Riehl participated in the 2023 Canada Winter Games in Prince Edward Island in February and March. The games saw 3,600 participants compete in 20 sports spanning over 150 events. Riehl participated in five speedskating events, while Weiss took home a bronze medal in Karate Kata Male, an event that debuted in the 2023 Canada Winter Games.

21. Educator nets Bank of Canada Museum award

_{Kim Dudek's efforts earned her the prestigious Bank of Canada Museum's Award for Excellence in Teaching Economics.}

Kim Dudek, a dedicated Red River Métis teacher, received national recognition for her innovative approach to teaching economics in 2023. While inspiring her students to create a trading post, Dudek's efforts earned her the prestigious Bank of Canada Museum's Award for Excellence in Teaching Economics. The Red River Métis teacher has almost three decades of teaching experience and initiated the trading post project in 2021 to support her Indigenous Academic Achievement program students affected by the global pandemic. The trading post has thrived, showcasing students' creations, including beadwork, medicine bags, pouches, moccasins, plants, bannock, and more. The initiative not only provided students with entrepreneurial skills but resulted in the class donating $1,000 to the North Point Douglas Women's Centre, underscoring the connection between education, community engagement, and charitable giving.

20. Red River Métis Citizens awarded Jubilee Medals

_{Left to right: then-Premier Heather Stefanson, recipient Alyssa Thomas, Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville, and MMF President David Chartrand.}

At the Manitoba Métis Federation's (MMF) Extraordinary General Assembly in June, the MMF, alongside Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville and then-Premier Heather Stefanson, recognized and honoured 41 Red River Métis Citizens with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for their noteworthy contributions to the Red River Métis. This medal, bestowed to 1,000 recipients across the province, acknowledges individuals of all ages and backgrounds who have made significant contributions to society. The criteria for recipients include being a resident of Manitoba or having a connection to Manitoba, or have contributed to Canada, Manitoba, or to a particular region or community.

19. Gabrielle Wishart receives Sport Manitoba award

_{Red River Métis volleyball coach Gabrielle Wishart received the Peter Williamson Memorial Award for Train to Compete/Train to Win.}

Gabrielle Wishart, a distinguished Red River Métis athlete-turned-coach, had a big 2023 head coaching the U16 male team at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games in Halifax, securing a gold medal with an 8-0 record in round-robin play. The MMF Citizen was also recognized for her coaching excellence, receiving the Peter Williamson Memorial Award for Train to Compete/Train to Win at the Sport Manitoba Coaching Awards. This accolade is reserved for coaches working with high-performance athletes at the national or international level. With seven years of coaching experience, she attributes her success to her parents, whose support has been integral to her athletic journey.

18. Ruby Bruce lauded with Indspire Award

_{Red River Métis Youth Ruby Bruce was honoured with the National Indspire Award in the Youth category in May 2023.}

Red River Métis Youth Ruby Bruce was honoured with the National Indspire Award in the Youth category in May 2023. Bruce creates art for various projects, organizations, and businesses, serving as an advocate for young Indigenous artists. Her portfolio includes murals, logos, and public artwork, such as bike lock stations in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, and a billboard showcased in downtown Toronto. Recognized as a Knowledge Keeper, the Youth is committed to preserving and sharing Red River Métis culture through her art.

17. Alexander De La Ronde named Indigenous Athlete of the Year

_{Alexander De La Ronde (left) was named the Male Indigenous Athlete of the Year from the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports and Recreation Council.}

Lacrosse player Alexander De La Ronde added another accolade to his collection, securing the title of Male Indigenous Athlete of the Year from the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports and Recreation Council. De La Ronde's versatility shines as he excels in box and field lacrosse. His commitment to excellence was highlighted by his participation in four provincial teams, spanning both types of lacrosse, in 2022. The athlete's achievements were celebrated alongside other award winners in an April ceremony. De La Ronde also competed in box lacrosse at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games.

16. Darcy Fleury named Thunder Bay Chief of Police

_{Fleury was sworn in as the Thunder Bay, Ontario police chief in May.}

Red River Métis Citizen Darcy Fleury was sworn in as the Thunder Bay, Ontario police chief in May. Prior to becoming Thunder Bay Police Chief, Fleury was Manitoba's Officer in Charge of Criminal Operations - the second highest ranking position within the Manitoba RCMP. With a career spanning over 35 years, the former Mountie embraces and encourages diversity within law enforcement and works toward creating an inclusive environment.

15. Harry Halpin dances his way to two medals on the world stage

_{Halpin secured a bronze for his captivating hip hop solo and a silver for his hip hop trio performances at the Dance World Cup.}

Harry Halpin left his mark on the global dancing stage in 2023. The Red River Métis Citizen competed at the Dance World Cup held in Braga, Portugal in July. Halpin took part in engaging in five routines: group jazz dance, small group contemporary, contemporary solo, hip hop solo, and hip hop trio. Halpin secured a bronze for his captivating hip hop solo and a silver for his hip hop trio performances. The Dance World Cup marked Halpin's impressive debut on the international dancing scene, highlighting the depth of talent within the Red River Métis community.

14. Lydia Gork receives U of M Arts gold medal

_{Lydia Gork received a BA advanced degree with a major in Indigenous studies and a minor in political studies from the University of Manitoba.}

After four years of dedicated academic pursuit, Lydia Gork achieved a significant milestone in 2023 by earning a BA advanced degree with a major in Indigenous studies and a minor in political studies from the University of Manitoba. In recognition of her achievements, Gork was honoured with the University of Manitoba 2023 Faculty of Arts Gold Medal, which is awarded to the undergraduate student with the highest academic standing. Despite the rigorous demands of her studies, Gork has remained actively engaged with the MMF, serving as the Executive Chair of the Winnipeg Regional Youth Advisory Committee. The Youth also collaborated with Meghan Young, a fellow graduate, and Métis Inclusion Coordinator at the U of M, to host a workshop and presentation titled "Battle of Batoche, Exploring Métis Ancestry" on the final day of the anniversary of the Northwest Resistance.

13. Jessie Pruden receives BIPOC prize at Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards

_{Red River Métis Citizen and entrepreneur Jessie Pruden received the Women in Business Owners of Manitoba BIPOC Prize at the 2023 Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.}

A notable achievement for 2023, Red River Métis Citizen and entrepreneur Jessie Pruden received the Women in Business Owners of Manitoba BIPOC Prize at the 2023 Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. The proud owner of Bead 'n Butter began beading in 2020, initially learning from YouTube videos. The Red River Métis Citizen has adopted an innovative approach to traditional beading by infusing vibrant colours and bold designs into her creations. Pruden's unique creations are available on her website and in various retail stores, including the MMF's own Red River Métis Marketplace.

12. Costume designer's dress sends powerful message

_{Amelia Rempel's piece will become a permanent fixture at the Red River Métis National Heritage Centre when it opens in 2026.}

Red River Métis Citizen Amelia Rempel, a student of costume design at the University of the Arts London, made a profound impact with her final school project. To create a powerful statement on the epidemic against Indigenous women in Canada, Rempel designed a dress imprinted with the names and stories of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). The artist used screen printing techniques on calico and silk organza and incorporated news articles onto the skirt. The red satin draped around the shoulders, neck, and mouth carries the names and ages of MMIWG, symbolizing the silence of the media on these atrocities. In September, the MMF, affiliate Infinity Women Secretariat, and the Northwest Métis Council presented Rempel with a $20,000 cheque to support her tuition. The dress will be showcased at various gatherings and will become a permanent fixture at the Red River Métis National Heritage Centre when it opens in 2026.

11. Red River Métis artists earn Manitoba Country Music Awards

_{Three Red River Métis artists - Brandi Vezina, Catie St. Germain (pictured), and Michael Audette - earned awards at the 2023 Manitoba Country Music Awards.}

Three Red River Métis country artists were recognized at the 2023 Manitoba Country Music Awards (MCMAs). Numerous Citizens garnered nominations at the awards ceremony across 21 categories, showcasing the depth of their contributions to Manitoba's country music scene. Brandi Vezina claimed the prestigious NCI FM Indigenous Country Music Award, while Catie St. Germain was honoured with the Emerging Artist Award, and Michael Audette's fiddle talents were acknowledged with a well-deserved placement in the MCMA All-Star Band of The Year in the specialty section.

10. Red River Métis Citizens appointed to courts in Manitoba

_{Lori Ann Hunter and Brian Bowman (pictured) were appointed as judges within Manitoba.}

In a noteworthy advancement for 2023, Lori Ann Hunter was appointed as a judge of the provincial court of Manitoba in The Pas. The Red River Métis Citizen was first called to the bar in 2012 and embarked on a distinguished career as a Crown attorney with the Manitoba Prosecution Service. She has worked in Grand Rapids, youth court in The Pas, and circuit court in Pukatawagan, Moose Lake, Snow Lake, Cranberry Portage, and Flin Flon.

Brian Bowman was appointed a Judge of His Majesty's Court of King's Bench for Manitoba in Winnipeg by Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. The Red River Métis Citizen spent 14 years working with multiple law firms before spending eight years as the City of Winnipeg's Mayor.

9. Jennine Krauchi continues to leave mark on Red River Métis culture

_{Krauchi was honoured at the 2023 Keeping the Fires Burning ceremony.}

When it comes to cultural preservation and artistic excellence, Red River Métis Citizen, artist, and master beader Jennine Krauchi stood as a beacon of distinction in 2023. Her remarkable contributions to Red River Métis culture were honoured with the prestigious 2023 Indspire Award for Culture, Heritage, and Spirituality. With a portfolio that graces hundreds of collections of Métis art, Krauchi's work takes centre stage in prominent Canadian museums, including the Canadian Museum of History, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and in Scotland, France, and the US. This year, the Citizen was one of three artists designing a $2 commemorative circulation coin celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day from the Royal Canadian Mint. In addition to receiving a Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal this year, Krauchi was honoured at the 2023 Keeping the Fires Burning ceremony, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer in Red River Métis art and cultural representation.

8. Red River Métis athletes medal at National Aboriginal Hockey Championships

_{25 Red River Métis athletes participated in the 2023 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.}

In a thrilling display of talent and sportsmanship, 25 Red River Métis Youth showcased their athletic abilities as they represented Team Manitoba in the 20th anniversary of the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC) held in Winnipeg in 2023. The U18 male team asserted dominance with a 2-0-1 record in round-robin play, including a commanding 14-0 victory over Team Eastern Door and the North. The boys secured gold after defeating Ontario 5-2 in a thrilling final. The Manitoba U18 female team held a perfect round-robin record, outscoring opponents with a cumulative score of 29-2. Despite a strong effort, Team Manitoba narrowly missed back-to-back championships, falling to Team Ontario 2-1 in the finals.

7. Five Red River Métis MLAs elected

_{Five Red River Métis Citizens - Billie Cross, Tyler Blashko, Robert Loiselle, Renée Cable, and Bernadette Smith - were elected during the provincial election on October 3, 2023. Left to Right: Minister Anita Campbell, Infinity Women Secretariat Spokeswoman; Bernadette Smith, Point Douglas MLA; Robert Loiselle, St. Boniface MLA; MMF President David Chartrand; Renée Cable, Southdale MLA; and Billie Cross, Seine River MLA.}

It was a big year in politics as the province of Manitoba held their general election to elect 57 members to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. Five Red River Métis Citizens were elected: Billie Cross, Seine River MLA; Tyler Blashko, Lagimodière MLA; Robert Loiselle, St. Boniface MLA; Renée Cable, Southdale MLA; and Bernadette Smith, Point Douglas MLA. Cable was named the province's Minister of Advanced Education and Training, while Smith was appointed as the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness. During the election, the province elected Wab Kinew, the first First Nations Premier of Manitoba. 

6. Larocque drafted second overall in Professional Women's Hockey League

_{Red River Métis Citizen Jocelyne Larocque posed with fans at the MMF's 2023 Annual General Assembly.}

Jocelyne Larocque continued to show why she is one of the world's most high-calibre hockey players after being drafted second overall in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) by Toronto. The PWHL was formed in 2023, after the Premier Hockey Federation was bought out and dissolved. The league's inaugural season features six teams playing 24 games each.

5. Bernadette Smith makes BBC's list of 100 most influential women

_{Smith's impact extends beyond local governance and advocacy for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.}

Red River Métis MLA Bernadette Smith earned global recognition, securing a spot on the BBC's 100 Women 2023. Other names on the list include former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, and actress America Ferrera. As Manitoba's Minister of Housing, Addictions, and Homelessness, Smith's impact extends beyond local governance and advocacy for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The BBC's prestigious list is categorized into climate pioneers, culture and education, entertainment and sport, politics and advocacy, science, health, and tech.

4. Jason Lepine inducted into Wall of Fame

_{Hailing from Portage la Prairie, Jason Lepine began fiddling at seven years old and brings a distinct style to traditional Red River Métis fiddling.}

It's been a long time coming for Jason Lepine, a Red River Métis Citizen, acclaimed fiddling champion, and recording artist, as he was inducted into the Manitoba Fiddle Association Wall of Fame. Though the official recognition occurred in 2020, the long-awaited ceremony took place in April due to pandemic-related delays. Hailing from Portage la Prairie, Lepine began fiddling at seven years old and brings a distinct style to traditional Red River Métis fiddling. His induction in the Fiddler-Performers category honours his family legacy, as his father, renowned fiddler Gary Lepine, also holds a place on the wall.

3. Red River Métis athletes triumph at North American Indigenous Games

_{Our athletes won 23 gold medals, 15 silver, and five bronze, for a total of 43 medals and 70 individual medallists.}

130 Red River Métis athletes showcased their skills this summer when they made the trek out to Halifax, Nova Scotia, to participate in the 2023 North American Indigenous Games. From July 15-23 under Team Manitoba, our Youth won 23 gold medals, 15 silver, and five bronze, for a total of 43 medals and 70 individual medallists. Canoer/kayaker Luke Enns led all Red River Métis athletes in the medal department, bringing home gold in five of the six events he competed in. Under the Believe Program, the MMF provided $195,000 for our Youth to help cover the costs of registration fees, travel expenses, and accommodations. 

2. Riel themed opera hits the stage

_{The opera featured many Red River Métis cast and crew members.}

Our artists continued to flourish as 2023 saw the debut of a Red River Métis opera, Li Keur. This piece of historical fiction follows 21st-century Joséphine Marie, who is transported to 1870s Montana through a grandmother's storytelling. She encounters Josette, a sharpshooting runaway travelling with a disguised Louis Riel, on the run from assassins, and the last buffalo brigades. During their adventures, Josette falls in love with Riel. The opera featured many Red River Métis cast and crew members, including director Simon Miron and composer and fiddler Alex Kusturok. The show featured traditional music, dancing, fiddling, beadwork, and languages, including Michif and French.

1. Louis Riel finally honoured as first Premier of Manitoba

_{The legislation was read three times before being given Royal Assent on the evening of December 7, 2023.}

Although Louis Riel was wrongfully executed 139 years ago, 2023 proved to be the year of reconciliation for the historic leader of the Red River Métis. At the MMF Annual General Assembly, Premier Wab Kinew promised the over 4,000 Citizens in attendance that one of his first acts would be to officially give the honorary title of Manitoba's first Premier to Louis Riel.

MMF President David Chartrand, Minister Anita Campbell, and Elder Linda St. Cyr-Saric joined Premier Wab Kinew and Red River Métis MLA Tyler Blashko, who introduced the Louis Riel Act in front of MLAs, MMF Cabinet members, and Citizens at the Manitoba Legislative Building on November 23. It was a historic day for all of Manitoba, and the culmination of decades of advocating to secure Riel's legacy.

The truth about Riel and his role as the Founder of Manitoba and a Father of Confederation will become part of the education children receive in this province and in this country. No longer will future generations hear what so many of us heard in school, about Riel as the traitor, or the madman. Now he will be known as the first Premier of Manitoba. People will learn about his contributions to Canada, and how he led Red River Métis to shape the Prairies of Western Canada. 

This legislation marked the first step in resetting the relationship between the Manitoba government and Indigenous governments as partners and leaders in the province. The Louis Riel Act was read three times before being given Royal Assent on the evening of December 7, 2023.