News
Fall 2021 edition of The New Nation: la noovel naasyoon Magazine
by Desirae Barker
Oct 12, 2021
The Fall 2021 edition of The New Nation: La noovel naasyoon magazine is now available online. Published by the Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI); the quarterly magazine promotes Métis culture, highlights GDI’s programs and successes, and showcases good-news stories of Métis across the province.
The art depicted on this edition’s cover is by Métis artist Dennis Weber. In 2013, GDI commissioned Dennis to create a painting in honour of Métis veterans. He has aptly paid tribute to our heroes through a montage of images that highlight the many ways, and times, Métis veterans served in the air, at sea, and on land.
The contents of this edition highlights the latest Institute news including a new partnership between GDI, SIIT, and the U of S named the Oyateki Partnership, which will support Métis and First Nations youth transitioning to post-secondary education, while in post-secondary, and into meaningful employment. GDI’s Indigenous Apprenticeship Program will be one of the activities supported through the partnership. In other Institute news, Leonard Montgrand was recently appointed as the Métis Nation—Saskatchewan Minister of Education and Skills Development, a portfolio that includes serving as the chair of the GDI board of governors. A short introduction and biography on Leonard are included in this edition.
A very important section of this edition is dedicated to informing readers on the history of residential schools, the Métis experience in these schools, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action. GDI commemorated the survivors, their families, and those that lost their lives to residential schools with a special Every Child Matters Display and tribute by John Arcand detailed in this edition.
GDI press announced a new book release coming October 2021 by Darren R. Préfontaine. Darren is a trained historian and has been employed with the Institute’s Métis Culture and Heritage department for nearly 25 years. His book titled Changing the Course of Canadian History: The Life and Works of Olive Patricia Dickason, will release this year on the tenth anniversary of Olive Dickason’s passing.
Throughout this edition are various new program announcements, supports available for students, and access to Métis culture and Michif resources. GDI is pleased to provide free access to the magazine on our website here. It is also posted on the Virtual Museum for Métis History and Culture here. A limited print run will also be available.
