The first 5,000 fans at Saturday’s Saskatchewan Roughriders kisiskâciwan game will receive a free t-shirt designed by local Metis artist Christine Marie.

The t-shirts are part of a pair of artworks Marie has designed, one that will be used on the shirts and the other for the Roughriders’ social-media graphics and in-game presentation.

Marie’s designs are a part of the second-annual kisiskâciwan game, which is held to celebrate indigenous cultures in the province.

“I have strong Metis roos here in Saskatchewan, and I really wanted to honour that and celebrate the Metis nation,” Marie said. “The design is inspired by, and it represents that beadwork pattern that was often found on traditional Metis wear back in the day and also today.”

Marie said seeing the Riders hosting a game dedicated to indigenous cultures is excellent.

“Given the history of our country, to see organizations use their platforms, their space in this way, not only creates that opportunity, it creates room for healthy relationships, and then it also sets the tone for others.”

Marie added that she will be attending the game with her kids, who will be taking in their first CFL games, which happens to feature her artwork.

“I’ve got goosebumps,” she said when talking about it. “It’s just really an hour and surreal.”