Michif language students from the Batoche region recently participated in a naming ceremony alongside Métis leaders to mark the arrival of 16 newborn calves to the Batoche bison herd. These calves represent the first bison births in the Batoche area in almost 150 years, as shared by Métis elders to students from St. Louis, Duck Lake, and Bellevue, Saskatchewan. Earlier this year, students from various locations in the province were invited to contribute in naming these calves.
In 2023, Métis Nation—Saskatchewan (MN-S) collaborated with Parks Canada to relocate 25 yearlings from a bison herd at Grasslands National Park to Batoche, with an additional 50 bison added last year. This initiative aims to reintroduce bison to Métis Nation-Saskatchewan lands and promote conservation efforts.
The educational field trip provided students with a practical learning experience about Métis culture through hands-on activities, emphasizing land-based education. Darcy Lepowick, the MN-S minister of environment, agriculture, lands, and resources, highlighted the significance of witnessing the bison in their natural environment for a deeper understanding of Métis history.
The chosen names for the calves reflect the diverse influences of the Michif language, incorporating elements from northern, heritage, and French dialects. Noteworthy names include “Chiraan” (Northern Light), “Toneur” (Thunder), “La ci flesh” (Little Arrow), and “Li pchi” (The Little One). Among them, “Groos tet” (Big Head) stood out, eliciting joy from Samantha Campbell, a Grade 10 student at St. Louis Public School studying Michif language.
Following the naming ceremony, a group of students and observers ventured into the bison paddock to observe the herd up close. Angela Rancourt, who teaches Michif language classes, expressed pride in the cultural significance of the event and the connection to their homeland.
As the bison herd continues to grow, plans are in place to relocate some bison to establish new herds, ensuring a sustainable conservation approach. Lepowick mentioned that the herd is nearing its capacity and anticipates more calves to be born in the upcoming spring, with the potential to establish nucleus herds for other Métis communities across the province.
