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As we settle into the new year, I want to celebrate you—our Citizens. Your stories, achievements, and dedication inspire every decision we make as your government. Self-government is about building a nation where you can thrive, your unique needs are met, and your voices are heard.
This year, we’ve spotlighted some incredible citizens making history. Métis youth Annika Behnke won Canada’s first gold medal at the 2024 Youth Olympic Games. Playwright Caleigh Crowe received the Governor General’s Literary Award for her work exploring mental health and marginalized communities. Sheena Bradley and Maddie Amyotte earned the 2024 Patient Experience Award for blending traditional healing with modern care.
These are just some of the stories that remind us of the power of self-government to uplift and empower. If you know a Métis citizen whose achievements deserve recognition, let us know—we’re building a nation where every citizen can shine.
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The Otipemisiwak Métis Government will hold a Citizens' Representative By-Election for the Rocky View Métis District from April 6 – 13.
By-elections for District Captain and Citizens' Representative for the Wabasca-Desmarais Métis District will take place from April 5 – 7.
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Is Your Contact Info Up To Date?
Stay informed with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government! Update your Citizenship Profile via our Contact Information Portal.
Need an email or need to update it? Contact registry@metis.org.
Already have an email? Log in with a confirmation code. It’s quick, easy, and keeps you connected.
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Secretary Spotlight: Grant Lacombe
This month, Secretary Grant Lacombe is featured in the Secretary Spotlight. Secretary Lacombe, who holds the portfolio for Harvesting and Culture, reflects on the accomplishments of 2024, shares his priorities for 2025, and offers insights into his background and experiences.
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Bill 2024-02, An Act To Amend The Elections And Referenda Act
Provide your feedback on the proposed amendments to the Elections and Referenda Act.
Bill 2024-02 has completed its first reading in Citizens’ Council and needs your engagement!
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The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in our legislative processes.
As part of this commitment, and in line with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Constitution and the Self-Government Act, Citizens’ Council is seeking your input and feedback on Otipemisiwak Métis Government Bill 2024-02, An Act to Amend the Elections and Referenda Act.
Otipemisiwak Métis Government Bill 2024-02, An Act to Amend the Elections and Referenda Act, proposes changes to the Elections and Referenda Act.
These changes aim to extend protections from inducement, intimidation, and interference to prospective nominees, nominees, and candidates in Otipemisiwak Métis Government elections and by-elections. The proposed protections would be the same as the protections that voters currently have under the Elections and Referenda Act.
The goal of these amendments is to maintain the principles of fair, equitable, and transparent elections, which are safe and open for participation by all Citizens of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
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Citizens’ Council’s ability to make meaningful change as a government is directly linked to our ability to engage with and be responsive to the needs and ambitions of our Citizens and communities in keeping with the Métis tradition of kapikiskwanaw, meaning “we will talk.”
We invite you to participate in the following survey to share your thoughts on Bill 2024-02 which is open for Citizen consultation until 11:59 p.m. on January 26, 2025.
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Day Home Startup Pilot Program Applications Now Open!
If you are a Métis Citizen within Alberta and interested in this exciting opportunity, apply today!
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Métis Mingle: Building Blocks For Family, Well-being, And Culture! | |
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Apply today to secure your spot and connect with Métis families while celebrating our culture!
Strengthen bonds, create lasting memories, and explore Métis traditions in a welcoming environment.
Who Can Attend:
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Alberta residents within 2 hours of the event
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Métis families with children aged 6 – 17
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Completed application by an adult (aged 18+)
What to Expect:
- Workshops for Kids & Adults: Lego Masters, Creative Kids, Mindfulness
- Additional Activities: Yoga breaks, beading workshops, and more
- Snacks Provided: Morning, lunch, and afternoon
Note: Childcare is not provided, but kids' and adults' workshops will run concurrently.
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The Path Ahead
Join us for this eye-opening webinar about criminal justice and FASD. Long-time registered social worker Donna Kristiansen from the Willow Winds Support Network’s In Reach program explores the constantly evolving world of FASD with tips on how to support those who are navigating incarceration with FASD.
January 28
6 – 7 p.m.
Zoom
Have questions? Email fasd@metis.org
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Métis Court Support Engagement Sessions
Join us from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Zoom, January 28, for the Not for Profit Agencies Session.
To register, please get in touch with justice@metis.org
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Promoting And Increasing Cultural Safety
Register for this month's engagement to share your thoughts.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Consultation Department seeks input from women, youth (aged 16 – 29), and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Citizens!
Not available/able to attend the group engagements? Fill out a form for a one-on-one interview
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Online Session
Women
February 11
6 – 9 p.m.
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Online Session
Youth
February 18
6 – 9 p.m.
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Online Session
2SLGBTQQIA+
February 25
6 – 9 p.m.
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Save The Date: Askîy Winter Guardians Gathering Is Coming Soon!
Starting February 1, apply for limited spots in our exclusive March 22 and 23 sessions.
Join us at the 2025 Askîy Winter Guardians Gathering for a fun-filled day of ice fishing on Lac Ste. Anne, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
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Fish with friends and family, enjoy snacks and beverages, watch a gill netting demonstration, and learn how Askîy Guardians protect fish populations.
Dress warmly and bring your fishing gear, bait, and ice cleats. Fishing and ice traction gear are available to borrow from on-site staff while supplies last.
Don’t miss this incredible experience!
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It May Be Snowing, But We’re Thinking About Sowing!
Get free seeds, gardening supplies, and a "Get Your Garden Growing" guide!
Eligibility:
- Otipemisiwak Métis Citizen
- One application per household
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Must be 18+ to apply
Apply by February 4 for the Seed Mail Out Program!
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Calling All Harvesters!
Share your 2024 harvesting activities, effort, and success with the Environment and Climate Change Department!
This survey takes about 15 – 20 minutes, and Citizens will be entered to win 1 of 11 prizes including:
- 1 x $500 Visa gift card
- 10 x $100 Visa gift cards
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Harvest data will be shared anonymously with CWS for migratory bird management and used by the Otipemisiwak Métis Government to protect Métis Section 35 Rights. | | |
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Let's Get Prepared Together
Complete the Emergency Management Survey for a chance to win 1 of 25 $100 cash prizes!
Help us assess community needs and identify key resources by completing this 15 – 20 minutes anonymous survey.
Thank you for your valuable input in shaping this important initiative!
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Sustainability Tip:
On average, a gas snowblower emits about one pound of carbon monoxide per hour. Due to the lack of emission controls, these small engines produce a considerable amount of carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and nitrogen oxides.
The exhaust from the fuel used goes directly into the air we breathe.
Electric snowblowers are a better alternative, but the best option is to forgo using a snowblower altogether.
Relying on a snowblower also means missing out on some good exercise.
Instead, grab a shovel—but be sure to stretch and pace yourself!
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Send In your Nominations
Do you know a Métis youth or senior making a difference in your community? Nominate them for the Outstanding Métis Youth and Senior Award by Monday, February 3.
The award will be presented to the successful nominees at the Youth & Seniors Gathering! Nominee
Eligibility:
Must be aged 12 – 29 or 60+ and an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen.
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Come In From The Cold
Escape the cold this Youth Night with a selection of new and classic board games, plus a cozy hot chocolate bar to keep you warm!
January 29
6 – 8 p.m.
Youth Building
Métis youth aged 12–29 are welcome to bring their friends and family.
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No registration required—just drop in and enjoy a fun, relaxing evening!
Questions? Email Bailey at blohmann@metis.org.
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Learn Jigging Moves With Nicole Acuna!
Drop-in jigging lessons are open to all, especially Métis youth aged 12–29, from January 23 to the last Thursday in June, every Thursday!
Nicole Acuna, raised in a traditional Métis family, preserves Métis music and dance through workshops across southern Alberta.
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Jigging for Beginners
6 – 7 p.m.
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Jigging for Intermediate
7 – 8 p.m.
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- Basic Step
- 2 Changes to the Red River Jig
- Heel Toe Polka
- 7 Step
- Sash Dance
- Broom Dance
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- Double Step
- Many Changes to the Red River Jig
- Square Dances
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Bring a water bottle and moccasins or comfortable footwear/socks.
For more info, contact Kristen Acuna at kacuna@metis.org
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Pathways To Healthy Living | | |
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Come For An Appointment - Stay For The Gathering!
Join us for the Rocky View Métis District Free Dental Clinic and Community Gathering!
This event is about bringing our community together, improving health, and enjoying quality time with friends.
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February 10 – 14
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Okotoks
D'Arcy Ranch Golf Club
Note: Appointment spaces are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.
Priority will be given to individuals experiencing distressing symptoms and dental emergencies.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at dental@metis.org or 780-455-2200 ext. 244
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Kickstart Your Journey To Change
Join us on Tuesday, January 28, from 7 – 8:30 p.m. with the Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) Info Session.
Register before January 27 with our Community Prevention Practitioner Kyla Hachey, at KHachey@metis.org.
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Complete the session and two meetings with our Community Prevention Practitioner to become eligible for the NRT Program.
Those who complete all sessions are eligible to receive a $500 Alberta Blue Cross Benefits Card for nicotine replacement therapies and cessation medications.
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Meeting 1
Thursday
January 30
7 – 8:30 p.m.
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Meeting 2
Tuesday
February 4
7 – 8:30 p.m.
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Join our free 8-week Virtual QuitCore program.
Sessions will be held online every Wednesday evening beginning February 26.
To register, please email email KHachey@metis.org by February 24.
Be sure to include your Métis Citizenship ID number in your message.
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*This program is in partnership with Alberta Health Services. | | | | |
Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
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Medical Assistance In Dying Survey
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government acknowledges and respects the diversity of perspectives among our Citizens regarding palliative care and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) and seeks your input by February 14.
We continue to advocate at both the federal and provincial levels for Métis-specific and Métis-led engagements on critical issues such as this, as we believe it’s critical for Métis voices to be heard.
We encourage all Métis Albertans, to actively participate in current engagement opportunities and share their thoughts and experiences.
You can do so by clicking the link below and completing the Government of Canada’s survey.
| *Please note that as this is a survey run by the Government of Canada, therefore the Otipemisiwak Métis Government does not have access to the data received. | | | | | | |
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Housing Needs Engagement Sessions
Your voice matters. Share your insights, enjoy a meal, and enter to win door prizes. Let's work together to shape a housing strategy that reflects the diverse needs of Métis communities!
If you are unable to attend any of the in-person sessions, we invite you to complete a survey.
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Secure your spot and elevate your microbusiness in online commerce
Starting February 5, join us for transformative 3-hour seminars every Wednesday.
This is the final session of the highly sought-after Métis Women in Micro-Business Seminar Series, powered by Rupertsland Institute.
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