Étienne Rivard

Dr. Étienne Rivard is an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Saint-Boniface. Specializing in the geographies of Francophonie in the Americas, his research focuses on Métis identities, colonial spatial practices, and cultural interactions through time. He teaches courses ranging from introductory geography to specialized topics in political geography and intercultural relations.

• Active in the Center for Research on Territorial Development (CRDT) as a collaborating member
• Affiliated researcher at the Centre for Research in French-Canadian Civilization (CRCCF)
• Associate researcher at the Lab for Studies on Brazil, France and the French-speaking World
• Associate Researcher at the Tier 1 Canada Research Chair on Migration, Circulation and Francophone Communities

Research Interests: His work examines the spatial dimensions of Métis identity formation, francophone migration patterns, and the interplay between territorial appropriation and cultural diversity. He employs historical cartography, census analysis, and oral geography methodologies to uncover the colonial legacies shaping contemporary minority francophone communities.

Grant Activity: Dr. Rivard has secured significant funding through SSHRC Partnership Grants and Canadian federal immigration programs. His research explores francophone mobility patterns, textbook circulation networks, and the development of cultural identity measurement tools in minority contexts.

Community Engagement: He actively participates in public lectures, media interviews, and policy discussions regarding Métis history, francophone immigration, and decolonization efforts, including appearances on Radio-Canada and participation in Manitoba Integration Summits.