Supporting community, culture and shared opportunities

BHP is proud to continue its longstanding support of Back to Batoche – one of the largest Indigenous cultural gatherings in Canada and a cornerstone celebration of Métis culture, heritage and community. 

The Métis are one of three federally recognized Indigenous Peoples in Canada, alongside First Nations and Inuit. They are a distinct Indigenous nation with their own unique culture, history, traditions and language (such as Michif), and have played an important role in the development of Western Canada. 

For more than ten years, BHP has sponsored Back to Batoche, which brings together thousands of attendees for cultural celebrations, traditional activities, music, learning opportunities and community connection over a four-day festival. Employees had the opportunity to participate in the event by attending or volunteering at our BHP tent and connecting with community members. 

For employees like Alvaro Tapia, attending Back to Batoche offered an opportunity to build a deeper understanding of Métis culture and connect with community members in an authentic setting.  

“What stood out the most was the incredible sense of pride, connection and community. From the stories shared to traditions celebrated, it was an opportunity for someone who chose Saskatchewan as home, to gain deeper appreciation of the culture and history that continue to shape the province today,” said Alvaro.  

Supporting Back to Batoche reflects BHP’s global ambition to create long-term relationships with Indigenous peoples, based of trust and mutual benefit. Back to Batoche is an event that contributes significantly to Saskatchewan’s cultural landscape and provides a gathering place for families, youth, Elders, artisans and community leaders, helping preserve and celebrate Métis culture for future generations.  

Read more about BHP’s approach to Social Investment at BHP.com/social-investment.