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Dear Citizens,
We are quickly approaching our 96th Annual Citizens’ Gathering, and our first as the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. Over the past year, our team has been working hard to support our Citizens and build out our government.
I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to meet and connect with many of you next weekend. Not only will it be a fantastic opportunity to share the exciting developments and initiatives that we have been working on, we will also be sharing some important information about the progress we have made with the Government of Canada in advancing Métis self-determination and self-government.
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This will be my first Citizens’ Gathering as President, and I am looking forward to not only sharing the successes of the last year, but also reflecting on some of the challenges and learning how we can continuously work to better serve you.
Sincerely,
President Andrea Sandmaier
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Jasper Emergency and Disaster Support
Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens whose primary residence is within the evacuation zone for the recent wildfires in Jasper National Park may be eligible to receive up to $200 from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
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You may qualify for the evacuation payment if you:
- Are a Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
- Had to leave your primary residence due to a Jasper wildfires evacuation order.
- Recent proof of residence within Jasper National Park is required. Secondary residences and recreational properties are not eligible.
Funding is limited to a one-time $200 payment per eligible Citizen and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to limited funding, applications will remain open until funds are depleted. Once the application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email and we will be in touch in 1-4 business days.
To apply or if you need any assistance, please reach out to wildfires@metis.org
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Annual General Assembly (AGA) vs Citizens' Gathering
We are excited to invite you to celebrate 96 years of coming together as a Nation at the Citizens’ Gathering on August 16-17, 2024, at the Edmonton Expo Centre.
RSVP here to let us know you’ll be attending.
Please note that completion of this form does not guarantee accommodations; these must be arranged independently.
For any inquiries or assistance, contact us at abmetisevents@metis.org or call 780-455-2200 ext. 364.
This event will be organized differently this year to reflect our new Constitution.
Changes include:
- One of the duties of the Chair of the Citizens' Council is to preside over the Citizens' Gathering, and this appointment is made by the Citizens' Council rather than through an election,
- The Chair now fulfilling the roles previously managed by the Resolutions Committee,
- The Chair may appoint a Sergeant-at-Arms instead of by nomination or vote,
- Reports will be presented by a broader range of officials, including elected officials and appointed officers among others.
There are also changes to Citizens’ proposals and special resolutions process.
For more information, please visit our website.
We look forward to your presence at the Inaugural Citizens' Gathering as we come together to shape the future of our Nation.
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Government Reports and Citizens' Proposals
Citizens' Proposals will be heard at the Citizens' Gathering on August 17.
If you have any questions, please email abmetisevents@metis.org or call us at (780) 455-2200 ext. 364.
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Banquet
Join us for a night of fiddle music, jigging, and kinship at the inaugural Citizens’ Gathering Banquet.
August 17, doors will open at 5:30 p.m.
Banquet tickets will be available at the Citizens’ Gathering registration table.
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Out Picking Berries?
Fill out our Berry Harvesting Trip form to help us learn how the plants we value are impacted by human activities, weather patterns, and climate change.
Draws will be held and all prizes distributed by December 2024.
To show our appreciation, all Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens who submit forms by November 30, 2024 will be entered into a draw for a $250 Cabela’s gift card.
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Help Protect Alberta's Fish And Their Habitat
We’re keeping tabs on Alberta’s fish so they can be enjoyed by future generations.
Fill out any (or all!) of our fishing forms between May 15 to August 31 and be entered to win a $250 Cabela’s gift card.
One gift card is available for each of the three forms (fishing trip, fish measurement & health, and palatability), so make sure to submit!
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Help Protect Alberta's Fish And Their Habitat
The Conservation Land Access Dashboard (CLAD) allows users to easily identify conservation sites that permit activities such as camping, traditional plant gathering, hunting, fishing, ATV, and horseback riding.
Discover over 1,000 conservation lands near you.Go to albertametis.com/CLAD to plan your next adventure today!
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Note: CLAD provides summaries for each site and is not the primary source of information. Please confirm acceptable activities with managing organizations for sites you are interested in visiting before your trip. | | |
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Questions About Harvesting?
Do you have questions about harvesting and your rights as an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen?
Join us virtually August 21 at 6 p.m. MST to learn about harvesting from Otipemisiwak Métis Government Harvesting Manager, Craig Letendre!
If you have any questions, please reach out to climate@metis.org.
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Pathway To Healthy Living | | |
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Start Your Journey Of Change On The Right Foot
We’re here to help you.
Join us for the Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) Program Info Session.
This session will walk you through the steps required to enroll in the NRT Program.
Tuesday, September 10
6 – 7:30 p.m.
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Get your nicotine-related questions answered by our Community Prevention Practitioner, Kyla, who will help you start your journey of change on the right foot.
Email Kyla before September 9 to register at KHachey@metis.org
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Travelling For Medical Appointments?
Our newly expanded Medical Travel Program can provide both mileage reimbursement and accommodations for Métis Citizens across the province. If you are an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen travelling to your next medical appointment, you may be eligible!
Contact the Health Program Coordinator at 780-455-2200 or mtp@metis.org.
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Be A Métis Citizen Voice For Change!
The Government of Alberta is recruiting members to participate in 12 Regional Advisory Councils as they explore options to refocus our province’s healthcare system. Métis perspectives are needed to establish local and community priorities to improve the healthcare system.
The Regional Advisory Councils will represent their communities’ perspectives and the unique needs of each region.
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Our Citizen’s input is needed more than ever! We encourage Alberta Métis Citizens who are 18 years or older to apply with a resumé highlighting their past involvements/achievements in the community. Selected council members will meet 4 – 6 times per year (in-person/virtual) and may be reimbursed for reasonable travel expenses while performing their duties.
Apply before August 30 for a possible Fall 2024 appointment.
Learn more about this critical role and eligibility.
Submit your application today.
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Métis Mingle: Building Blocks for Family, Well-Being, and Culture
Family, well-being, and culture are key to a strong and healthy community.
Join other Métis families and Citizens at this in-person event, featuring fun workshops and activities for all ages, along with a delicious lunch.
August 24
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Medicine Hat Lodge
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Workshops Include:
- Lego Masters and Creative Kids Workshops
- Mindfulness Workshop and Beading Lessons
- Yoga Lessons
Come mingle and have fun with us!
Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis due to limited space availability.
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Gear Up For School
Apply now for the 2024/2025 Gear Up for School program.
If you have any inquiries about the program or need assistance with the application process, please don't hesitate to reach out to a member of the CFS Early Years Team at CFSEarlyYears@metis.org or give us a call at 780-455-2200.
We're here to help!
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Second Annual Nurturing Connections: Métis Family Gathering
Mark your calendars for a truly special event!
The Children and Family Services Department is thrilled to announce the Second Annual Nurturing Connections: Métis Family Gathering!
September 13 – 15, 2024.
Hyatt Regency, Calgary
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This gathering is dedicated to fostering community connections and well-being among our cherished Métis children and families. We’re creating a warm and welcoming space filled with family-friendly activities, deeply rooted in Métis culture and traditional ways of knowing and being.
Spots are limited and sure to fill up fast!
Be ready to apply when the link goes live on Monday, August 19 at 9:00 am.
Stay tuned for more updates and details coming soon!
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Youth Day is Here!
Join the Youth Department for a day of community building, workshops, and fun!
Join us for a Beadwork Art & History workshop with Alexa Lizotte, followed by a game of Jeopardy, beading, and games!
August 12, 2024
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Wildrose Room, Bold Center 8702 91 Ave, Lac La Biche
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Métis youth ages 12 – 29 are welcome to register online!
QUESTIONS? Contact Alissa at ampaul@metis.org
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Learn How To Make A Pair Of Beaded Earrings!
Learn how to make a pair of beaded earrings with Kelsey Hordal! An alternative option for those who don't wear earrings will be a keychain. Lunch and all supplies are provided! Hosted at The Hive, the youth space in downtown Bonnyville!
August 13, 2024
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Hive, 5011 50 AVE,
Main street, Bonnyville
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Open to Métis citizens aged 12 – 25, no beading experience needed.
Questions? Contact Kirsten at kgreeley@metis.org
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Find your Citizens’ Council Representative or District Captain! | | |
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Get Ready For The 2024 Andy Collins Golf Tournament!
Join us on August 22, starting at
9 a.m. for a day of golfing at the Grand Centre Golf and Country Club in Cold Lake, Alberta.
Team Entry: $800 for 4 players
50/50 Raffle & Exciting Door Prizes!
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just out for a fun day on the course, this event is sure to be a good time for everyone involved.
Don’t miss out — register your team today!
Contact Cassandra to register via email at ccollins3150@gmail.com or by phone at 780-201-2846.
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Register With The Otipemisiwak Métis Government | |
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Register your kids of all ages for Métis Citizenship! We have cultural opportunities such as family camps, youth hangouts, and more for Otipemisiwak Métis Citizens!
Bring your Citizenship application(s) and questions to our Registry Team. Input your Citizenship card number into your child's family tree and we will match your information to them.
Come to the provincial office from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, or join us for extended hours:
August 13 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
August 22 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
We're also coming to these locations:
August 20 in Lac La Biche from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Region 1 Office
August 22 in Red Deer from 1:00 – 7:30 p.m.at the Radisson Hotel
August 26 in Edmonton from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Jasper Place Edmonton Public Library
August 27 in Okotoks from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Okotoks Recreation Centre
August 28 in Calgary from 1:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the Hellenic Banquet Hall
A Commissioner of Oaths will be on hand and photos can be taken on-site. Harvesting applications will be accepted as well.
Have questions? Need help? Head to albertametis.com/registry for all the answers!
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See You At The Citizens' Gathering! | | | | |
