Indigenous Peoples: The Métis Nation
Tourism Golden is grateful to live, work and play on the traditional unceded territory of the Ktunaxa and Secwepemc peoples which is also the chosen home to the Métis Nation Columbia River Society.
We respectfully acknowledge the culture and history that connects these Nations with this land; and their wisdom, sacrifices, and stewardship of the past, the present, and the future.
Indigenous Peoples called this land their home long before Golden became a settlement. There are three Nations that have deep connections to this landscape: the Ktunaxa Nation, the Secwepemc Nation, and the Métis Nation. These Indigenous cultures reveal the timeless significance of this land to past and future generations.
The Métis Nation
The Métis have been here for hundreds of years, they’ve been a part of developing communities, farms, schools, and businesses throughout the valley since the 1800s. Métis history can be traced back through Golden’s lineage, and they’ve played an integral role in developing Golden into the settlement as we know it today.
Currently, an epicenter of Métis culture can be found with the Métis Nation Columbia River Society (MNCRS), which is one of 39 chartered communities of Métis Nation British Columbia. The MNCRS serves the Indigenous peoples of Golden and area. Their mission is to promote culture, provide education, and tend to the well-being of their people.
The MNCRS is very active in Golden and often host events and workshops that celebrate their culture, such as Louis Riel Day/Métis Week, National Indigenous Peoples Day, and National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. They also support the extended community of Golden by participating in Pride events, trade fairs, parades, the Snow King Festival, and other events.
They work in the community to provide outreach to those in isolation or in need. Elders visit the schools to teach history, language, dance, and culture. They offer workshops in basket making, beading, capote making, food preservation, making balms and lotions, archery, foraging, and many other traditional ways of being and knowing.
- Words by the Métis Nation Columbia River Society
You can find expressions of Métis culture around Golden, from the teepee and gardens at the MNCRS office to artwork and murals. In downtown Golden, there are a few iconic pieces of art that you can visit:
Wave Mosaic Mural with a beautiful prayer by Métis Elder, Knowledge Keeper, and Region 4 Senator Betty Hoogendorn
A mural of Métis past, present, and future by Hanako Nagao
Additionally, you can admire paintings, beadwork, and cultural displays at the Golden Visitor Centre created by members of the MNCRS community.