Gabriel Dumont Institute

History

In April 1976, the Association of Métis and Non-Status Indians of Saskatchewan held a provincial cultural conference in Saskatoon, with the goal of finding a way to give Métis and non-status Indian people a say in the preservation, respect, promotion, and enhancement of Aboriginal culture.

One of top goals from that conference was to create an Aboriginal-controlled educational and cultural institute for Métis and non-status Indians. Following the 1976 cultural conference, AMNSIS lobbied the Government of Saskatchewan, and in January 1978, formal talks with the province began.

In 1979, a proposal was developed and submitted to the treasury board and to cabinet, and on Sept. 20, 1980, the Gabriel Dumont Institute of Native Studies and Applied Research officially came into being.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Gabriel Dumont Institute is to promote the renewal and development of Métis culture through research; materials development, collection, and distribution; and the design, development, and delivery of Métis-specific educational programs and services.

Values

Gabriel Dumont Institute’s values are the foundation of all our interactions with students, clients, faculty, staff, the Métis community, and the general public.

Culture

Métis culture is a critical feature of all GDI programming. The institute is a conservator of Métis history and culture, a national leader in Michif-language initiatives, and a trusted source for those seeking Métis-specific information throughout the world.

Quality

GDI provides high quality programming, resources, and services to the Métis community. All GDI staff work toward our Métis-specific mandate. Professionalism and highly-qualified staff are key strengths that contribute to the successful delivery of the institute’s culturally-specific education and training programs.

Respect

Relationships are built on respect and trust. GDI approaches interactions with students, clients, community members, the public, our partners, and stakeholders respectfully and with understanding. GDI offers a welcoming environment in which people feel at home, respected, believed in, and capable.

Responsiveness

GDI is responsive to clients, to labour market needs, and to communities. The institute participates in a variety of needs assessment processes, which provide both proper and timely training in Métis communities. Meeting student needs is a key priority of GDI.

Accountability

GDI has built considerable credibility throughout our history and has developed positive relationships with stakeholders, partners, Métis communities, and governments. GDI will remain accountable and transparent to our partners and stakeholders, including funders, staff, students, and the Métis community.