Manitoba Day is worth celebrating – even twice!

St. Vital

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 01/05/2024 (891 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Back in 1870, a provisional government led by Louis Riel created a Bill of Rights to represent the interests of the Red River Metis, settlers, and First Nations. This document was the heart of the Manitoba Act which created our province. The Act received royal assent on May 12, 1870, and was proclaimed two months later, on July 15. Manitoba was born.

The creation of our province was truly unique. It was the only province brought into confederation by an Indigenous nation. This is a source of great pride for the Metis, who celebrate on both May 12 and July 15.

Manitoba is blessed with a rich natural heritage and a diverse cultural heritage. Cultures – the way we live – are shaped by the natural landscapes in which they evolve. Traditional clothing, food, transportation, and economy are all influenced by the natural environment.

Early settlers were drawn to parts of the province where they could pursue their traditional ways of life. It is no accident that Icelandic settlers were drawn to Manitoba’s big lakes that would support their fishing culture. Ukrainian settlers felt at home on the prairie landscape. Urban areas such as Winnipeg and Brandon now attract newcomers from other cities around the world – adding to our cultural diversity.

Whether you are Indigenous, a descendent of early settlers, or a newcomer, Manitoba Day is a great time to experience our natural and cultural diversity. Early May is the peak of the spring migration and the start of the busy season for Manitoba’s 200 community museums and heritage agencies.

Here are some ideas for things to do to celebrate the Manitoba Day weekend:

• Learn more about Manitoba Day and Metis heritage at www.mmf.mb.ca;

• Walk, bike, or canoe at your favourite park, river valley, or nature centre;

• Go birding to enjoy the beauty of the spring migration;

• Start a new family tradition – explore a different museum every Manitoba Day;

• Experience Mennonite culture at the Mennonite Heritage Village in Steinbach (admission is free on Saturday, May 11);

• Research your personal family tree;

• Celebrate Manitoba women at the Manitoba Genealogical Society on Saturday, May 11(noon to 4 p.m.)

• Join the Genealogical Society to access the Manitoba Names Index (MANI) – an on-line index with 1.25 million records of births, marriages, and deaths;

• Support Manitoba’s provincial heritage agencies – links to all eight can be found at www.gov.mb.ca

Happy 154th, Manitoba!