Michif language students from the Batoche area recently participated in a special naming ceremony alongside Métis leaders to welcome 16 new calves to the Batoche bison herd. These calves mark the first bison births in the Batoche region in almost 150 years, as shared by Métis elders with students from St. Louis, Duck Lake, and Bellevue in Saskatchewan. The students were extended the opportunity earlier this year to assist in naming the newborn calves.
In a collaborative effort in 2023, Métis Nation—Saskatchewan (MN-S) teamed up with Parks Canada to relocate 25 yearlings from Grasslands National Park to Batoche, with an additional 50 bison added to the herd last year.
The field trip provided the students with a hands-on educational experience rooted in land-based learning, fostering a deeper connection to Métis culture, according to Darcy Lepowick, the MN-S minister of environment, agriculture, lands, and resources. Witnessing the bison in their natural habitat and engaging with the history firsthand is believed to enhance the retention of knowledge compared to traditional classroom teachings.
The chosen names for the calves reflect the diverse influences of the Michif language, incorporating elements from the northern, heritage, and French dialects. Notable names include Chiraan (Northern Light), Toneur (Thunder), La ci flesh (Little Arrow), and Li pchi (The Little One). A calf named Groos tet, translating to “Big Head” in English, particularly delighted Samantha Campbell, a Michif language student at St. Louis Public School, expressing gratitude for the enriching experience and feeling fortunate.
Following the naming ceremony, the participants embarked on a journey into the bison paddock to meet the herd face-to-face. Angela Rancourt, who teaches the Michif language class and oversees the Michif early learning program, emphasized the significance of celebrating this event on their ancestral land, fostering a sense of connection and pride among the high school students.
As the bison herd continues to expand, plans are in place to relocate some of the animals to establish new herds in different areas, as mentioned by Lepowick. Despite nearing its carrying capacity, the herd is expected to welcome more calves next spring, serving as nucleus herds to support other Métis communities across the province.