Belle River Métis man paddling on 'life-changing' voyage
A 2,200-kilometre paddling adventure along traditional Métis fur-trade routes has created a stronger connection between Matthew Bombardier and his heritage.
Twelve young Métis ambassadors from different parts of the country, along with guides and communication assistants, are riding canoes in a long trek between Ottawa and Kenora.
The Métis Nation of Ontario group started their journey in May and expect to paddle for 86 days, visiting Métis communities throughout the province, before reaching their destination.
On Friday, day 32, they stopped in Windsor.
"The trip is incredible. Its a chance for me to reconnect with my Indigenous identity, and share it with other people along the way," Bombardier said. "It's life changing. It's giving me an opportunity to relive what my ancestors lived."
The paddlers, who range in ages from 18 to 25, dress in historic Métis clothing from the fur-trade era as they retrace the historic route the voyageurs would have taken, explained Alex Young, communications assistant for Métis Nation of Ontario.
"While the expedition is an incredible opportunity for all the paddlers and all the people involved, it's also about connecting the communities along the waterway and the Métis communities throughout Ontario," Young said.
The group has experienced near-perfect weather, only having to deal with a few rainy and cold days. The voyagers camp out at each place they stop or if a paddler is from an area, the group will stay at one of their homes for the night.
