The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Dumont Lodge. (submitted photo/MN-S)

By paNOW Staff

Sacred grounds of Batoche

Dumont Lodge to serve as gathering, learning place for members of MN—S

Jul 3, 2024 | 1:20 PM

A tribute to ancestors and a new learning location for youth is a reality in Batoche for the Métis Nation—Saskatchewan.

The MN—S government celebrated the opening of Dumont Lodge on the sacred grounds of Batoche where Métis children, youth and elders will be able to reconnect with the land, language and cultural traditions.

The idea for the project came from Elder Albert LeClair two years ago.

“By reconnecting Métis children and youth, they have a sense of pride in their culture, they can learn from their Elders, and carry on our traditions with their own children. In doing so, we help shape them to become our leaders of tomorrow,” LeClair said. “Dumont Lodge is the ideal structure in the perfect location to allow for that. I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. This is exactly what I envisioned.”

The $8 million, 18,000 square-foot build is a partnership between Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples, along with inter-ministerial co-operation from MN—S ministries of Infrastructure and Housing, Early Learning and Children and Culture and Heritage. The building was designed by 3twenty Modular which collaborated with Jason Surkan, who owns SOLO Architecture.

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Métis culture was represented throughout the building, the construction of which employed Métis tradespeople and subcontractors.

“Every inch of Dumont Lodge speaks of Métis identity, culture, values and language to me,” MN—S President Glen McCallum. “This building represents where we as Métis people have come from, and the involvement of our youth is proof that we are heading in the right direction. With the guidance of our Elders, our Nation and our Métis culture are in good hands. This is our moment to immerse visitors to Batoche this summer in Métis tradition and history in every sense.”

Michelle LeClair, the vice president and minister of lands and environment said the location of Dumont Lodge was selected for its connection to the land in the forest and the rolling hills of Batoche.

“The tranquility of this region is far removed from the storied history, but teachings will be passed to our youth in the perfect environment. The building and location along with the multi-use capabilities of het Lodge will allow the MN—S to showcase our culture to governments, industry and those wishing to host corporate events.”

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panews@pattisonmedia.com