Métis educator encourages students to embrace culture and personal growth

By Shelley Winger

Students at Morinville Community High School recently learned more about Métis culture
through music, dance and personal storytelling during a special presentation celebrating
National Indigenous Peoples Month.
The school welcomed Joely Gladue, a champion Métis jig and square dancer, cultural
educator, performer and motivational speaker, who shared Métis traditions while
encouraging students to embrace personal growth, resilience and self-discovery.
Gladue is known for bringing Métis culture to schools and communities through a
combination of dance, storytelling and education. His presentations aim to celebrate Métis
traditions while encouraging youth to develop confidence, perseverance and pride in who
they are.
“I hope that they understand that nothing in life is easy. It’s the work you put into things
where you find gratitude and discover who you truly are as a person,” Gladue said following
his visit to MCHS.
The presentation featured live Métis jigging and dance demonstrations, giving students an
opportunity to experience Métis culture firsthand. Some students also joined Gladue on the
gym floor to learn a few dance steps themselves.
Beyond showcasing traditional dance, Gladue’s presentation encouraged students to
embrace challenges, learn from their experiences and continue striving to become the best
version of themselves.
Prior to the event, the school encouraged students to wear ribbon skirts and ribbon shirts in
recognition of their cultural significance and as a gesture of respect and allyship.
Gladue said he hopes students understand that discovering who they are takes time and
perseverance.
“It will never be too late to find out who you are,” he said. “Make those mistakes, learn from
them, move on and never stop getting better as an individual.”
The event formed part of MCHS’s recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Month, which
celebrates the cultures, traditions and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis
Peoples across Canada.
By bringing Indigenous educators and performers into the school, MCHS provides students
with opportunities to learn about Indigenous cultures through direct experiences and
meaningful conversations.

Through his combination of dance, cultural education and motivational speaking, Gladue
encourages young people to build confidence in themselves while developing a greater
appreciation for Métis culture and traditions.