The Vernon & District Metis Association
Posted by Rick Taylor
on Jul 11, 2014
The speaker at our July 10th lunch was Vincent Van Wieringen, President of the Vernon & District Métis Association. Vince gave us a history lesson for the Métis, going back to the Selkirk Settlement of Red River, Manitoba in the early 1800's. For many years they were not viewed as truly aboriginal because only one of their parents was Native, and they were called derogatory names like 'half-breed'. Recent court rulings have changed their status in the eyes of the Provincial and Federal governments to be viewed at the same level as Aboriginal or Inuit. Vince said there are about 600 registered Métis people in the greater Vernon area. Attendance at the Métis Association meetings has grown as they have become more involved with issues like funding for foster care and teaching cultural and heritage issues through their Community Connection for Aboriginal Youth Program. There is more information on their website - www.vdmametis.com (photo shows Rotarian Julie Knobloch with Vince)
THE BIG 50/50 WINNER
Club President Greg MacKinnon is presenting a cheque for just over $2400.00 to the recent 50/50 winner, Rotarian Jim Burns.
Of course the next draw has already started as the sale of 50/50 tickets is a huge benefit to the club. I wish I could have seen the one a few years ago that got down to the last two cards - that must have been an exciting draw. Maybe again..........
Of course the next draw has already started as the sale of 50/50 tickets is a huge benefit to the club. I wish I could have seen the one a few years ago that got down to the last two cards - that must have been an exciting draw. Maybe again..........