Île-à-la-Crosse was formally founded by the Hudson Bay Company in 1776. (Image Credit: ilex250.ca)

By Derek Cornet

change of plans

Michif language conference cancelled as 250-year Île-à-la-Crosse celebration approaches

Jun 29, 2026 | 2:35 PM

The Village of Île-à-la-Crosse and the 250 Celebration Committee have released a statement expressing their regret about the postponement of the Michif Language Banquet and Conference scheduled for next week.

The letter explains the village and the Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Languages (OCIL) had been planning both events since early 2026, which included developing conference programming, coordinating workshops, identifying speakers, and promoting the gathering as an important opportunity to celebrate and strengthen the Michif language.

On June 20, the village received a letter from the OCIL stating the conference and banquet would be held at a later date.

“The village recognizes that this news will be disappointing for many community members, Elders, presenters, language champions and visitors who were looking forward to participating. We share that disappointment,” the statements adds.

“We would like to assure the public that the Northern Village of Île-à-la-Crosse and the Île-à-la-Crosse 250 Celebration Committee fulfilled our commitments in planning and preparing for these events. Significant work had already been completed.”

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The reason given for the postponement is the upcoming transition in leadership with the OCIL such as the end of the current commissioner’s term and the appointment of new directors.

The Île-à-la-Crosse 250 Celebration, scheduled for July 3-8, will go ahead as planned. There will be a variety of activities with the American country music band Blackhawk taking the stage on July 4. There will also be a $50,000 radio and TV bingo, a $25,000 square dancing and jigging contest, and a $25,000 slow-pitch tournament.

In addition, the local friendship centre will be hosting a cultural village and will be serving lunch every day to all attendees. There will also be theatrical productions, canoe races, historical tours, special appearances from well-known artists and Métis performers, a memorial unveiling and more.

—

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

by Derek Cornet

Michif language conference cancelled as 250-year Île-à-la-Crosse celebration approaches

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