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On April 4, a new Métis senior’s lodge was announced. The lodge is part of the Affordable Housing Investment Program in partnership with the City of Edmonton. Métis Capital Housing Corporation will be leading this project and is the first recipient of the City’s new Indigenous-led affordable housing grant.
“This is not just a program but a strategy to ensure every Métis Citizen can access safe, adequate, and affordable housing. It is about creating a landscape where opportunities are accessible, supported by programs that break down barriers and build bridges towards success.”
– President Andrea Sandmaier
The new lodge includes 36 affordable suites, a common dining area for sharing meals, and on-site social programming. It replaces the former Nihgi Seniors Lodge that closed in 2021 after 54 years. The site is within walking distance of grocery stores, pharmacies, transit, and other amenities along 118 Avenue. It will remain affordable for at least 40 years.
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Federal Court Decision
On March 28, the Federal Court released two decisions on legal challenges made by the Metis Settlements General Council and a group called the “Fort McKay Métis Nation Association” against the Canada-Métis Nation of Alberta Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Agreement (the “2023 MNA Self-Government Agreement”).
In these decisions, the Federal Court upheld the validity of the vast majority of the contents of the Agreement as negotiated between the MNA and Canada with only minor exceptions. While the Federal Court granted the applications for judicial review, the MNA emphasizes the following to its 65,000+ registered Citizens and the Métis communities it represents:
- The 2023 MNA Self-Government Agreement that was signed between the MNA and Canada remains in place and in effect.
- The Federal Court refused the requests from the Métis Settlements General Council and the “Fort McKay Métis Nation Association” to cancel the 2023 MNA Self-Government Agreement.
- The Federal Court has only set aside Chapter 6 and the definition of “Métis Nation within Alberta” in the 2023 MNA Self-Government Agreement, and referred these elements back to the Minister for reconsideration.
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Questions About Record Suspensions?
Join us for the first Justice Series educational presentation by the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) on Record Suspensions (Pardons).
Knowledge is power, and it is our desire to empower our Citizens.
The Zoom event will be held on April 10, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. MST. With the event approaching quickly, now is the time to register for your spot.
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Register by April 8. Upon registration, you will be sent the Zoom link. | | |
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Become A Judicial Tribunal Member
If you are looking for a unique, and impactful way to serve your Nation? Apply to join the Judicial Tribunal.
Openings in:
- Lesser Slave Lake Territory
- Lower Athabasca Territory
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Understanding FASD as a Whole-Body Disorder
FASD is a complex disability.
Our loved ones with FASD experience many co-occurring health issues at a significantly higher rate than the general population.
Wednesday, April 10
6 – 7 p.m.
Zoom
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Parents and caregivers are invited to join us around our ‘virtual kitchen table’ for a cup of tea and a conversation about FASD as a whole-body disorder. | | |
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Improving the Cancer Journey Experiences of Métis Albertans
Join us as we pave the way for a better cancer journey for Métis Albertans!
In our presentation, we'll dive into ongoing initiatives, share heartfelt stories, and unveil the empowering resources designed to uplift and guide those touched by cancer.
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The MNA's Department of Health is dedicated to understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by our community through targeted research and tailored support programs.
Tuesday, April 23
6 – 7 p.m.
Zoom
Together, let's create a brighter, healthier future for all Métis Albertans.
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Come for a Walk With our Feathered Friends!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Environment and Climate Change Department is pleased to offer Community Bird Walks!
Embark on a beginner-friendly walk to listen and look for birds. Come learn from the birds around us.
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About The Event:
Over the course of a three hour walk, listen as a local guide shares stories and discusses the ecological significance of the birds around us.
Visit: albertametis.com/bird-walks
Questions? Please contact Jac Curry, Environment Coordinator at: environment@metis.org
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Calling All Harvesters!
The Environment and Climate Change department wants to know about your migratory bird harvesting activities, effort, and success in 2023!
Complete the Migratory Bird Harvesting Survey
This survey takes about 15 – 20 minutes, and Citizens will be entered to win 1 of 15 prizes including:
• 1 x $500 Visa gift card
• 4 x $250 Visa gift cards
• 10 x $100 Visa gift cards
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Personal data will only be collected for Citizen verification and potential prize distribution. All harvesting information shared will remain anonymous. Anonymous data may be shared with other Otipemisiwak Métis Government departments for the protection of Section 35 rights and with Canadian Wildlife Service to inform the management of migratory birds.
Questions? Please contact Jac Curry, Environment Coordinator at environment@metis.org.
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Sustainability Tip Of The Week
Missed the Energy and Climate Community Engagement Sessions? We still want to hear from you!
Over the last month, the Environment and Climate Change team and partners at Iron and Earth have hosted in person and online engagement sessions to hear from Métis Citizens who are connected to the energy industry or have thoughts about the transition away from fossil fuels.
These are important conversations as the Federal Government has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and we want to make sure Métis Citizens and energy workers are not left out of this conversation.
To share your perspective please fill out the following survey!
Complete the survey and have your chance to receive 1 of 10 $100 VISA gift cards.
Eligible to Citizens of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of Alberta who did not attend previous engagement sessions in this series
More information: albertametis.com/energy-and-climate-change-community-engagement-sessions/
Questions: climate@metis.org
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Pathway To Healthy Living | | |
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Lesser Slave Lake Métis District Free Dental Clinic
On April 17 – 18, Métis cultural gatherings will take place in both Faust and Slave Lake in tandem with the Lesser Slave Lake Métis District Free Dental Clinic.
Join us Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Faust Community Hall, where Citizens are welcome to connect, share, and celebrate the strength of our community.
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Thursday evening, the celebrations will make their way to Slave Lake’s Legacy Centre, where we will host a community dinner, live entertainment, and an open mic night. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
No registration is required for these community gatherings.
Check out our complete schedule of activities.
We are booking non-hygiene appointments for the Lesser Slave Lake Métis District Free Dental Clinic from April 15 – 19.
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Join our FREE Virtual QuitCore Program and Start Your Journey!
In partnership with Alberta Health Services, we offer group intervention support to help you reach your nicotine-related goals.
This six-week program is available to Citizens of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government aged 18 and older seeking to reduce and/or quit their nicotine use.
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Sessions run on Zoom from April 11 to May 16. Register by April 8.
Upon completion, participants will receive a “QuitKit” and become eligible for a $500 Alberta Blue Cross Benefit Card for Nicotine Replacement Therapies. Participants will also have access to one-on-one support from our Community Prevention Practitioner and have a chance to win a prize every session.
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Staff from EPL will walk participants through the process of 3D printing by helping them design and print a small piece, which will be available to take home later!
Métis youth aged 12 – 29 are welcome to register!
Questions? Email Bailey Lohmann at blohmann@metis.org
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Are You Renting Or Thinking About Renting?
Do you have questions about home safety, applications, landlords, or financial empowerment?
Wednesday, April 24
6 – 9 p.m.
Youth Building
11821 123 Street NW Edmonton
Join staff from the City of Edmonton and Bissell Centre at the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Youth Centre on April 24, as they go over everything a potential renter should know!
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Open to Métis youth aged 12 – 29, with youth hoping to rent or currently renting strongly encouraged to register!
Questions? Email Bailey Lohmann at blohmann@metis.org
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Métis youth aged 12 – 29 are welcome to register through the online form.
Questions? Contact Hailey-Emma at hmcrae@metis.org
Please Note: No lesson on April 17!
Lessons will be broadcast on our Facebook live! Follow us @ABMetisYouth!
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Call For Métis Youth Artists And Artisans!
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting to explore your creative potential, this event is your platform to showcase your unique perspective and artistic flair!
Don’t have any artwork to show off? Join us at Central Youth Group on Thursdays to work on your masterpiece!
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Are you a Métis youth artist or artisan, aged 12 – 29, and want to showcase your work? No prior gallery or market experience is necessary; all artists from beginner to advanced levels are encouraged to apply!
Questions? Email Bailey Lohmann at blohmann@metis.org
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Rupertsland Institute
Join RLI for an unforgettable evening at the Rupertsland Métis Student and Alumni Association's Charity Drag Show on April 12! Witness the dazzling talents of Canada's Drag Race Season 4 Winner, VENUS, alongside drag royalty including Melinda Verga, KAOS, Tanner Steele, and our fabulous host Just Glue.
This event is part of the Métis 2SLGBTQIA+ Gathering and is open to everyone aged 18+.
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Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m., with a meet and greet to follow.
Admission is pay-what-you-may, with all proceeds dedicated to establishing a special Métis Scholar Award for Métis grade 12 students who identify as members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, supporting their pursuit of post-secondary education. Don't miss out!
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Registration extended until April 8. | |
Register With The Otipemisiwak Métis Government | |
Keep An Eye On Our Socials For
Earth Day Activities!
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