The Métis Nation registry : exploring identity, meaning, and culture
Subject
Métis identity
Métis registry
identification cards
ethnography
cultural identity
Métis registry
identification cards
ethnography
cultural identity
Abstract
In 2004, Métis Nation offices began to register and issue identification cards to Métis citizens
who met certain criteria. While many Métis people did register, and are registering, there are
many who have not, and will not. As a result, some question the validity of the registry because
it is unclear how it can reflect an accurate picture of the culture when not all Métis are
represented.
Through in-depth, unstructured interviews, my reflexive ethnography traces the accounts of six
Métis citizens in southern Saskatchewan. I explore their stories about their Métis-ness, and their
experiences with the registry. I also explore my own experiences with the registry and my
journey to un/discover my own Métis-ness.
The findings are presented in a creative non-fiction essay. The conclusions suggest that
identification cards cannot grant someone admission to a culture; rather, cultural identity requires
time, effort, intent, active participation, and meaningful connection with others.