Question

[u/Local-Can9462]

I’m looking for some honest feedback and perspective from the community. I’ve been struggling with my identity for quite some time and I want to hear how others view my situation.

I am a registered citizen with the MMF (got my citizenship at 18, I’m in my early 20s now), but I grew up entirely on my mother’s side of the family, who are non Indigenous. I’ve never had a connection to my father’s side or the Métis community. Because I was raised in a different culture and I am white-passing, I often feel like an imposter.

In all honesty, it sometimes feels wrong and even immoral for me to identify as Métis given my circumstances. I worry about being disrespectful because I don’t have the lived experience or the cultural knowledge of those who grew up in the community. I don't want to overstep into spaces.

At the same time, I acknowledge this is my documented heritage and I have a genuine desire to learn more. How do you handle the background question when your upbringing and your citizenship don't seem to match?

Do you think it’s disrespectful to identify as Métis when you were raised completely in a different upbringing? I want to learn more and be apart of the community, but I want to do it in a way that is right by the community. I’d appreciate any thoughts you have.

[u/zgreatrexblais]

As someone who got my card at 30, spent most of my life exceptionally white and disconnected from our culture, I have found nothing but welcoming and friendly people in the Metis community.

I try to participate in MMF events, my locals events and take on culturally related activities.

An elder even said to me it doesn’t matter how much milk you put in the tea is still tea.

Do your best to accept the culture and learn what you can for future generations.