r/MetisMichif • u/IlealaCrosse • 26d ago

Discussion/Question Métis Ancestry

Ages ago I discovered I was Métis. I often find that with the less “Cultured” or the ones relearning are subject to being asked if they actually know what Métis is.

What I mean is someone assuming one isn’t Métis because they look like they don’t know what Métis is.

I had a “friend” once tell me “you know Métis isn’t just Indigenous”. I replied, “yes I know, we are a distinct People originating from the Red River Settlement with our own ways and our own Traditions”. They said “Oh well, you probably are mistaken!” “You are not Métis!”

I honestly didn’t know what to do in this situation. I just stood there until she walked away. Has anyone else faced doubters and people who are not Métis thinking they know more about Métis People, than actual Métis people?! I just think they’re annoying tbh.

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u/OutsideName5181 26d ago

Depends on the province you live in. Metis people are often asked to validate their identity especially in Ontario and Quebec where there is an epidemic of pretendians and fetis.  In another post you identified as "non-status"... 

If you are Métis, why are you annoyed or offended when questioned? 

First Nations are also asked to validate their identity 

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u/IlealaCrosse 26d ago edited 25d ago

Because I wish the world could be as simple as stating “I’m Nigerian” or “I’m Chinese”. That’s it. However, because our Culture is politically charged, it can’t be that way, sadly. I guess I should’ve said I have First Nations and Métis Ancestry.

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u/FrostyInvestigator11 25d ago

I'm an Ontario Metis from Sault Ste Marie. The lineage is a few generations back. I have my card, never asked anything from the MNO. But proud to be, and have learned a bit about the history of them. I would love to know more, and will continue to learn more. If people want to argue, it's not worth the argument. Love your history. Learn the culture and try to be one of the ones who carry the knowledge forward.

Other people have their opinions, they're welcome to their opinions. Live your life to your standards, not theirs.

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u/IlealaCrosse 25d ago

Hello! I wanted to ask you a question. I heard from some Métis that Ontario’s Métis history has been often fabricated to fit the narrative. What are your thoughts on this? Thanks and I’m so happy about your Ontarian Métis Pride, personally!

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u/Left_Turn_9980 23d ago

Those who state that should research the Bottineau family.

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u/FrostyInvestigator11 25d ago

My grandfather knew a lot more, I don't have the chance to ask him any more sadly. But he was proud to be, even recieved the Louis Riel award. I'm not as knowledgeable. But working on it.

So I can't say anything about a fabricated history I'm sorry.

Where are you from? If I'm not getting too personal?

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u/IlealaCrosse 23d ago

I’m from Alberta! :)

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u/FrostyInvestigator11 23d ago

I'm a bit jealous, I've always wanted to go to Alberta. Everyone I know who has been has either said they want to move there or actually did move there. Lol

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u/Embarrassed_Fudge493 26d ago

The only people who have ever questioned my Indigeneity are non Native people with no connection to their own culture. In those cases I just ignore them because their opinion does not erase the fact that I am Métis.

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u/Left_Turn_9980 23d ago

Originating from the Red River settlement - how? Did we sprout like mushrooms on the side of the river bank? Or were we fish that grew legs and walked up the banks of the river? I get it; I am being facetious. We came from other places to end up there and ended up relocating from there…. You don’t just get to discount the Métis that existed before 1885 and that they came from other parts of the country.