Project works to strengthen identity of Métis youth

Métis youth are invited to creatively express pride in their unique heritage
with the launch of Métis Youth Expressions by the Métis Centre of the National
Aboriginal Health Organization(NAHO). The Canada-wide project will combine video recordings of Métis artistic expressions into a DVD and discussion
guide.
Director of the Métis Centre of the National Aboriginal Health Organization, Catherine Graham, believes the DVD and discussion guide will act as great resources for those who work with Métis youth in communities across Canada.
"This is a very exciting project," stated Graham in a news release.
"It is so important to provide opportunities to our youth today so that they develop the capacity to be leaders tomorrow. A positive cultural identity is an
important part of a person's health and well-being, and that is what this project is all about."
The goal of the project is to explore and celebrate contemporary Métis youth identity and diversity, and to showcase Métis pride.
Another goal is to engage youth by inviting selected Canadian Métis youth for a
two-day social media symposium, to give youth the opportunity to talk about
effective methods of youth engagement and to learn basic videography skills.
Youth will then be asked to participate at various regional talent shows and sit
on a selection panel to peer-review submissions.
Over the summer, gatherings have been taking place across Canada, inviting youth to sing, fiddle, jig, rap, dance, or narrate in front of the camera. As well, Métis youth are invited to submit any videos and hard copies of artwork, music, standup comedy, poetry, or any other form of artistic expression.
All Métis youth from across Canada are
invited to mail submissions to the project. For more information go to www.naho.ca/metiscentre