Treaty 3 Elder Demonstrates a Jig

Treaty 3 Elder Demonstrates a Jig For Louis Riel Day
Posted on 11/13/2020
Louis Riel Day

Treaty 3 Elder Howard Copenace demonstrates how to perform a jig in honour of Louis Riel Day. Filmed by Nicolas Camire.

Louis Riel Day is a day to celebrate Métis culture and the continuing progress that Métis people are making in fulfilling Riel’s dream of Métis taking their rightful place within Confederation.

Riel was executed on November 16, 1885 following the Northwest Resistance, which was a stand against the Government of Canada because it was encroaching on Metis rights and way-of-life.

Every year on Louis Riel Day, Métis communities hold events across the province to celebrate Métis culture, recognize the many contributions of the Métis to Canada, and to highlight the struggles that Métis continue to face.

Métis jigging originated in the Red River area. It is a combination of First Nations dancing and Scottish and French-Canadian step-dancing, and reel, jig and quadrille steps. Some of the more popular jigs are the “Red River Jig,” the “Rabbit Dance,” the “Broom Dance” and the “Sash Dance.”

For more information;

Métis Jigging

Louis Riel Day
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