Traditions of the Métis folk culture are fiddle playing, folk songs and tales, jigging, and crafts, such as beading, and the Métis Sash.

Throughout its history the sash has meant different things to different people. However, no one has celebrated and adopted L'Assomption sash as part of their proud heritage as have the Métis.

Taking its name from the Quebec town where it was produced, L'Assomption sash was not only functional, but colourful and identifiable as Métis apparel. The sash itself served as a temporary tumpline, key holder, first aid kit, washcloth, towel and as an emergency bridle and saddle blanket. Its fringed ends could become a sewing kit when the Métis were on a buffalo hunt.

In the west, the name, "L'Assomption sash" gave way to today's term, "the Métis sash." The sash was extremely popular among the mixed blood voyageurs and those who settled in the Red River area. Today, the Métis sash continues to be an integral part of Métis cultural celebrations.

The Meaning of The Métis Sash Colours

Red: Is for the blood that was shed through years of fighting for our rights
Blue: Is for the depth of our spirits
Green: Is for the fertility of a great nation
White: Is for our connection to the earth and our creator
Yellow: Is for the prospect for prosperity
Black: Is for the dark period of the suppression and dispossession of Métis land