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As we close out one year and look ahead to the next, take a moment with President Andrea Sandmaier to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together as the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. | | |
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Secretary Update: Shannon Dunfield
In August 2024, Secretary Shannon Dunfield was elected Chair of the 2027 NAIG Host Society for the upcoming North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) in Calgary.
In this role, she collaborates with a 29-member board representing Treaty 7, Treaty 6, Treaty 8, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, the Government of Alberta, Sport Canada, and other key sectors.
She also works closely with newly appointed CEO Lowa Beebe to ensure the games reflect the spirit of collaboration and cultural celebration.
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Planning for the 2027 NAIG is well underway. This will be Alberta's first time hosting the games since 1990.
The event will highlight the history and cultures of Indigenous communities in Alberta and celebrate the achievements of Indigenous youth, including Team Alberta athletes, as they proudly represent their communities on a national stage.
“Bringing the games back to Alberta has been a longstanding goal for the Indigenous Sport Council of Alberta. Hosting in Calgary in 2027 is a tremendous achievement.
The support from the Province of Alberta, City of Calgary, Sports Canada, Treaty 6, 7 and 8 Nations, and the Otipemisiwak Métis Government has been instrumental in making this vision a reality.”
Since 2014, Secretary Dunfield has been a driving force in Indigenous sport at provincial, national, and international levels.
As Chair of the Indigenous Sport Council Alberta (ISCA), she represented Alberta’s Indigenous communities nationally through her work with the Aboriginal Sport Circle.
Her leadership continued to shine when she was elected President of the NAIG Council in 2020. She oversees the successful 2023 Games in Kjipuktuk (Halifax), Nova Scotia.
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Métis Court Support Engagement Sessions
Join us on Zoom from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. on the following dates:
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January 7: Enforcement Agencies
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January 8: Not-for-Profit Agencies
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January 9: Legal Agencies
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January 14: Government Agencies
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January 15: Métis Communities and Settlements (North Region)
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January 16: Métis Communities and Settlements (South Region)
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The True Canadians Podcast | | |
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Taking Métis Heritage To The World
Lorelei Higgins Parker, a proud Métis Citizen, recently won the title of Mrs. Unity World Elite at the world competition in New Delhi.
After noticing a lack of Métis representation on the international pageant stage, she worked to bring her culture to the world.
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As she explains to podcast host David Wylynko, Lorelei always has one foot firmly in the realm of advocacy, acting as a Canadian Indigenous anti-racism consultant and cultural mediator and a positive peace activator. | | |
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Join Us for the Reclaiming Our Children: A Gathering for Change Conference!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Children and Family Services Department is proud to host this important gathering.
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Together, we’re building a care model rooted in Métis culture, values, and traditions. Your voice is essential in shaping the future under Act C-92.
Let’s create a brighter future for our Métis children and families. Apply now to be part of this transformative event!
Applications are open until spots are filled.
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Métis Mingle: Building Blocks For Family, Well – being, And Culture
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Children and Family Services (CFS) is teaming up with MP Psychology to present Métis Mingle: Building Blocks for Family, Well-being, and Culture in Peace River.
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This event, for Métis families in Alberta with children aged 6 – 17, offers workshops for both kids and adults, including Lego Masters, Creative Kids, Mindfulness, Yoga, and Beading.
Snacks will be provided, and children’s workshops will run alongside adult sessions (childcare not available).
Eligibility:
- Alberta residents within 2 hours of the event
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Métis children aged 6 – 17
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Completed application by an adult (aged 18+)
Space is limited and spots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
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The Path Ahead: Learning More About FASD And The Justice System
Join us for this eye-opening webinar about criminal justice and FASD.
January 28
6 – 7 p.m.
Zoom
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Long-time registered social worker Donna Kristiansen from the Willow Winds Support Network’s In Reach program will explore the constantly evolving world of FASD and offer tips on how to support individuals with FASD who are navigating incarceration. | | |
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Métis Families, This One’s For You!
Discover Métis culture with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Culture Card Collection!
The cards are perfect for families with children. These cards explore Métis traditions, history, and culture.
This starter bundle includes:
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Series 1: Who Are the Métis?
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Series 2: Métis Mîcôwin (Foods)
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Eligibility:
- Alberta residents
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Legal guardians of children aged 0 – 11
- Parent/guardian or child must be a registered Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government
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If your family received the Series 1 Culture Cards previously, you are automatically eligible for the updated version.
To continue receiving the Culture Card Collection, please complete and submit the Address Verification Form.
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Flourishing Futures Accessibility Grant For Métis Early Learners
Are you a caregiver of a Métis Early Learner seeking supports and services to help overcome learning barriers?
This program is designed to support Métis Early Learners aged 0 – 11 across Alberta.
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Register for the program to help cover the cost of services and supports to address common developmental, social, and emotional barriers to learning. | | |
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FASD Bridging Futures Program
Empowering Métis youth for a healthy, connected future!
Rooted in Métis culture, the FASD Bridging Futures Program supports Métis youth (aged 15 – 25) with FASD on their journey to adulthood.
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Eligibility: Métis youth in Alberta, with or without a diagnosis, willing to actively participate (caregiver consent may be required).
Self-referrals welcome!
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Water Act Survey
Your feedback is vital in shaping engagement plans that reflect your priorities and perspectives.
The Government of Canada is reviewing the Canada Water Act and is seeking input from Indigenous communities and organizations to ensure meaningful engagement throughout this process.
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We encourage you to share your valuable input by filling out the survey. | | |
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Onshore Pipeline Regulations Survey
The Canada Energy Regulator (CER) is reviewing the Onshore Pipeline Regulations (OPR) and Filing Manuals to update requirements for pipeline projects.
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We’re seeking your input to understand your interest in reviewing the Filing Manuals and to help guide the design of Métis Engagements across Alberta regarding Federal Pipeline Regulations.
Thank you for your input.
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Promoting And Increasing Cultural Safety
Register for our monthly engagements to share your thoughts as we travel across the province.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Consultation Department seeks input from women, youth (aged 16 – 29), and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Citizens!
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Participants are eligible for an honorarium.
Register today—spots are limited!
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Women
January 25
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Youth
January 25
2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
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2SLGBTQQIA+
January 26
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Emergency Management Survey
Complete the Emergency Management Survey for a chance to win 1 of 25 $100 cash gifts! Your feedback will help us identify resources and understand the emergency management needs of our community.
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The survey will take 15 – 20 minutes to complete, and all responses will remain anonymous.
Thank you for your participation in shaping this important initiative.
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Out Fishing? Tell Us About It!
We want to know about your fishing activities, what you’re catching, how the fish taste, and more.
Fill out any (or all) of our fishing forms between September 1 and December 31 and be entered to win a $250 Cabela’s gift card.
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Are You An ABHuntLog Winner? | |
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Check your ABHuntLog dashboard after December 2!
Don’t forget to complete the End of Season survey starting December 1, by logging into your ABHuntLog dashboard.
Participants using the “Métis Harvester” type are eligible for the draw, but a valid Otipemisiwak Métis Government citizenship number is required to claim prizes.
Thank you to everyone who contributed by logging observations and harvests, supporting wildlife monitoring and management in Alberta!
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Hunters' Role In Monitoring CWD In Alberta
Hunters play a key role in monitoring Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Alberta.
If you're a Métis harvester, we encourage you to submit deer heads for CWD testing as part of the Government of Alberta's CWD Surveillance Program.
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It's mandatory under Alberta’s hunting regulations and the Métis Harvesting in Alberta Policy to submit deer heads from the following Wildlife Management Units (WMUs): 148, 150, 151, 200, 234, 236, 728, and 730.
Learn more about CWD, the surveillance program, and carcass handling,
Happy and safe harvesting!
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Sustainability Tip: Choose A Responsibly Sourced Winter Coat
Thrift stores and donation centers, such as Goodwill and local shops, offer a fantastic selection of gently used, high-quality clothing.
Before purchasing new, see what they have to offer!
If you're considering a down jacket, ensure the down is sourced ethically.
Brands like Patagonia and The North Face follow traceable, cruelty-free standards.
Always research a company's sourcing practices before making a purchase.
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Pathways To Healthy Living | | |
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We’re Back With Trapline Fitness: Starting Your Day The Métis Way!
Join our Trapline Fitness program, and enhance your physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being!
January 8 – February 14
Wednesdays and Fridays
7 – 8 a.m.
Zoom
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Facilitated by our Community Wellness Coordinator, Gina Levasseur, this program offers an educational and engaging way to adopt a healthier lifestyle and build confidence in your exercise routine.
Please note that this program is designed for those who are physically able to engage in an active and rigorous workout.
Métis Citizens and their families are encouraged to join!
Children under 12 are welcome with adult supervision.
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Let The Threads Of Culture Become The Fabric Of Your Self-Care Journey
Embark on your journey, guided by community support and expert facilitators from the Weaving Wellness Centre in our Holistic Wellness Circles series.
Online Sessions
Thursdays
Jan. 16 – Feb. 20
6 – 7:30 p.m.
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This six-week program is designed to foster healing, resilience, and empowerment through discussion and reflection from a Métis perspective on mental health and wellness.
Participants can engage in as many sessions as they choose.
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We Can Help!
Caregivers carry the weight of the world on their shoulders.
Join us on Fridays, starting January 31, from 9 – 11:30 a.m. on Zoom, for Compass for the Caregiver.
Space is limited.
Register before January 22.
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The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is proud to host The Caregivers Alberta’s award-winning COMPASS program to help caregivers balance their own well-being with the challenges of providing care.
Sessions will cover four modules:
• Being a Caregiver
• Managing Your Stress
• Balancing Relationships
• Navigating the Journey
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Don't Wait — Get Screened Today!
A Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), or poop test, can help identify abnormal cells early, making cancer more treatable and improving health outcomes.
Anyone aged 50 – 74 is advised to have a FIT, or poop test, every year.
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A colonoscopy is a specialized screening test that is recommended if you have a personal or family history of cancer, or if an abnormality is detected.
Discover the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s cancer resources, including travel support.
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Get Ready For An Exciting New Episode Of The Keeping It Riel Podcast!
In Episode 2 we sit down with Hanna Paul from Buttertown (North Vermilion Settlement) for an engaging conversation you won’t want to miss!
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Save the Date!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government and the Department of Youth Programs and Services are excited to announce the 9th Annual Youth and Seniors Gathering, taking place February 21 – 23 in Edmonton.
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This event brings together youth (aged 12–29) and seniors (aged 60+) from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government to share knowledge, participate in workshops, and connect with influential speakers and performers.
Registration opens January 7 at 10 a.m.
Spots are limited.
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Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | |
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Transition Information Session: Calgary
We invite you to a meeting with representatives from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
This is an opportunity for Citizens from Rocky View District 4, Calgary Nose Hill District 5, and Calgary Elbow District 6 to discuss the upcoming government transition.
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Your feedback is invaluable to us as we progress through this important process.
Friday, January 17
4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Royal Hotel Calgary
Doors Open: 4:30 p.m.
Dinner: 5:00 p.m.
Question Period: 6 – 8:00 p.m.
We look forward to your participation and to ensuring a smooth, collaborative transition as we move forward together.
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Your voice matters, and together we can create meaningful change for a brighter future!
This effort is key to introducing Métis culture to all learners and meeting our community’s needs.
Experiences and insights are vital in helping us understand what’s happening in our schools.
The Rocky View, Calgary Elbow, and Calgary Nose Hill Métis Districts invite grandparents, parents, teachers, school trustees, and students to share your perspectives on education from a Métis viewpoint.
Survey input will help shape a more inclusive educational experience.
We aim to learn from existing effective practices and explore ways to further integrate Métis history and perspectives into education.
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New Year's Brunch
You’re invited to join us for a very special Sunday Brunch in celebration of the Ukrainian seasonal holidays, featuring a delightful buffet menu with an array of Ukrainian-inspired dishes.
Sunday, January 12
9.30 a.m. – 1.00 p.m.
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Métis Entrepreneur Workshop
Evolve your entrepreneurial spirit at the next Métis Entrepreneur Workshop from February 27 – 28 in Calgary!
Join us for two transformative in-person days of business insights, networking, and skill-building.
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Elevate your ventures and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs.
Participants are kindly requested to arrange their own transportation to and from the workshop venue.
Limited spots available!
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Early Learning Education Childcare Training (ELECT) Program
Early Learning Educators and Leaders are encouraged to apply for the Rupertsland Institute's (RLI) ELECT 2025 – 26 Cohort, where they will gain expertise in a Métis-centric approach to early learning, benefiting all learners.
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Preschool Funding Program
Caregivers and parents of Métis Citizens (aged 2 – 5) can now apply for Preschool Funding for the 2024 – 2025 school year!
Login to the RECC Room for more information.
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For more information on the ELECT and Preschool Funding Program, log in to the RECC Room. | | |
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Tutoring For K–12 Métis Students
Expanded tutoring options for K–12 Métis Citizens are now available!
Métis students in Alberta are eligible for a one-hour any certified tutoring provider of the parent or caregiver’s choice.
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Healthcare Entry Level Cohort Training Initiative
We want to hear about your interest in the growing healthcare industry, which requires dedicated individuals to provide essential services to the community.
We're assessing interest in a six-month healthcare training program cohort to prepare you for entry-level roles with Alberta Health Services.
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At Rupertsland Institute (RLI), we are developing a new healthcare centered initiative and we want your feedback. | | | | |
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Stay Informed And Never Miss An Important Update From Us
Ensure your contact information is up to date by using our Contact Information Portal to update your Otipemisiwak Métis Government citizenship profile.
Citizens need to have an email address already on file to receive a confirmation code during the log in process.
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