The Métis sash is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Métis Nation and Métis Motherland. Traditionally finger woven, the sash was used by the Voyageurs of the fur trade as a belt, towel, rope and so much more.
There are many Métis sashes across the Métis Nation in addition to the red sash that many of us recognize. There are Two Spirit sashes with all of the colours of the rainbow; there are sashes for each governing member and for different Métis women’s councils. LFMO’s own sash is purple.
So much of what LFMO does is purple or has some purple elements included, because purple is the healing colour of our Grandmothers. Combining the calm stability of blue and the fiery passion associated with red, purple is a sacred colour that represents spirituality, justice and royalty. One of the most expensive colours as dye, throughout history it has been almost exclusively worn by revered and sacred figures and so carries the message of ceremony and tradition. Additionally, the colour purple both calms and stimulates the body, so that we may heal and self-reflect at the same time to create a balance of harmony and awareness.
As our Grandmother Dianne says, whenever you feel troubled, scared or worried, wrap yourself in your purple sash and pray. Peace will come.
LFMO’s purple sash cannot be bought – it is only gifted as part of important milestones and ceremonies and to recognize the efforts of Métis women and gender diverse folks.
If you’d like to learn more about our purple sash, please email info@metiswomen.org.
