By Kayla Bruch

Metis women celebrate 20 years of culture in P.A.

Sep 21, 2014 | 4:56 PM

The Prince Albert Metis Women’s Association Inc. celebrated their 20th anniversary with a community event at Kinsmen Park.

This was the first time the association has hosted an event like this. There was food entertainment, vendors and activities for both elders and young children.

President of the association, Darlene Mckay, said it was appropriate to host an event open to the public, since they run a lot of programs within Prince Albert. Mckay said some programs they provide include; youth restitution, HIV awareness, and mediation, just to name a few.

Mckay said this association is very important to her because she feels more connected to her heritage and is proud to be Metis. She said the association strives to share culture and help youth and elder in any way possible.

Santana Cheekinew is an aboriginal Metis woman. She thinks the association really helps Metis women, realize they are an important part of society.

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“Native women…we’re not just second place,” said Cheekinew. “We need to address that aboriginal women are going missing. ”

Cheekinew said it’s thanks to the association that she applied to the Gabriel Dumont Technical School, and is currently waiting for a seat in a program.

“I’m Metis, my mom’s Metis,” said Jonathan Mah, bouncy castle operator.

Mah said he did set up a bouncy castle, but he said this event is about so much more then food and fun.

“To let Metis know what’s out there for them,” said Mah. “Like programming, schooling, education, things like that. ”

McKay said she doesn’t see this event being held annually. However, she was very proud of their 20 year milestone.

Kbruch@panow.com

On Twitter: @KaylaBruch1