An intrepid group of members and guests participated in the CUPE Back to Batoche Canoe Trip by paddling along the same shores that 141 years earlier saw a force of First Nations and Métis warriors defend their way of life against Canadian militia forces.
Over two and a half days, participants paddled the South Saskatchewan River from the Clarkboro Ferry crossing to the historic Métis community of Batoche, taking part in cultural teachings and learning about the history of Batoche along the way.
For Debra Merrier, diversity vice-president representing Indigenous workers on the CUPE national executive board, the experience was about more than reaching Batoche.
“The canoe trip was more than a journey down the river,” said Merrier. “It was an opportunity to learn from Indigenous and Métis knowledge keepers, deepen our understanding of this history, and build relationships rooted in respect, learning, and reconciliation.”
From a medicine walk with Knowledge Keeper Justin Scott to an evening feast accompanied by live music from Métis musicians Phil and Dallas Boyer, the journey provided meaningful opportunities to learn, share, and celebrate Métis and Indigenous traditions.
“As partner on this initiative through our national union, I would like to thank all the organizers and participants who made the Back to Batoche Canoe Trip a success,” said Kent Peterson, president of CUPE Saskatchewan. “Our provincial union takes reconciliation seriously, and this initiative is another example of providing opportunities for people to learn, understand, and build solidarity with one another,” he added.