The Métis people of Canada experienced a coming of age in 2003, when they gained the legal right to be recognized as Aboriginal people by the Supreme Court of Canada. Legislation notwithstanding, Canada’s Métis people still face struggles on a number of fronts. One primary concern is to achieve a measure of internal unity to present a single front to their Canadian neighbors. Endorsement of their historical uniqueness and cultural contributions by Canadians will also be a worthy challenge.

We Are Included provides historical background necessary to understanding the long struggle of the Métis for legal and cultural recognition. The authors outline the origin, development, and unique features of the Métis lifestyle, trace the life of their leader, Louis Riel, and detail the legitimacy of Métis claims.

John W. Friesen, PhD, DMin, is a professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Calgary, where he conducts research in Aboriginal education and teacher training. An ordained clergyman with the All Native Circle Conference of the United Church of Canada, he has authored or co-authored more than 50 books.

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Virginia Lyons Friesen, PhD, is a sessional instructor in the Faculty of Communication and Culture at the University of Calgary and a frequent instructor at Old Sun College in Siksika, Alberta. She has co-presented a number of papers at academic conferences and has co-authored several books.

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