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This week, we are welcoming Citizens from across the province to our second annual Citizens’ Gathering as the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
This is an opportunity for us to come together as a community and have some important conversation about the future we’re building.
Over the next few days, we’ll share updates on the work of our government and celebrate the incredible strength and diversity of the Métis Nation within Alberta. We’ve made some big strides over the past year as we continued to grow our government, assert our rights, and stand up for our Citizens. And we’re just getting started.
If you’re joining us in person, I’m looking forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones at the Kick-Off BBQ on Thursday evening. It’s going to be a powerful few days together and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish.
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Join Us In Celebrating 97 Years Of Gathering!
Join us at Métis Crossing this weekend for the Citizens’ Gathering! Thursday night we’ll kick things off with the Citizens' BBQ hosted by President Andrea Sandmaier.
See you Friday morning for the opening ceremonies followed by two full days of government reports and activities for you and your family.
Banquet tickets will be available at the Citizens’ Gathering information table. The banquet will take place August 23 at 6 p.m. with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.
Check out the agenda ahead to plan your day so you don’t miss what’s important to you!
Citizens’ Gathering will be livestreamed on YouTube and available for viewing both Friday, August 22, and Saturday, August 23. Stay tuned for further details.
| | Please note: RSVPs are used only to estimate attendance. No confirmation emails will be sent, and everyone is welcome to join. Thank you! | | |
Represent your District in the upcoming 2025 District Elections, October 20–27, 2025!
Candidates must be Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens age 18+, reside in the District where they are running, and passionate about their Métis community.
Nomination papers must be received at the Chief Electoral Office by September 5 at 5 p.m.
Lac Ste. Anne Métis District
- 1 District Captain
- 2 Councillors (Barrhead Sub-District)
- 2 Councillors (Devon Sub-District)
- 2 Councillors (Drayton Valley Sub-District)
- 2 Councillors (Stony Plain Sub-District)
- 2 Councillors (Whitecourt Sub-District)
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Fort McMurray Métis District
- 1 District Captain
- Minimum 2, Maximum 4 District Councillors
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Lesser Slave Lake Métis District
- 1 District Captain
- Minimum 2, Maximum 4 District Councillors
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Secretary Spotlight:
Rebecca Lavallee
This month, Secretary Rebecca Lavallee is featured in the Secretary Spotlight. As the Provincial Secretary of Youth, Sports, and Gender Equity and the first Provincial Youth Representative, she is committed to ensuring that Métis youth, women, girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ voices are not only recognized but empowered.
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Event Photo Collection
Looking for photos from our recent events? Create a free Flickr account to access, browse, and add to our photo galleries.
View the public galleries below and relive the memorable moments!
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Contact Information Portal
Confirm your contact information with our Contact Information Portal to ensure you are eligible to vote in District Elections!
Please note, you must be a resident of your Métis District for 90 days to be eligible to vote in District elections. The District where you are eligible to vote in is based on your physical address, not mailing address.
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Citizen Survey On Economic Reconciliation
Métis businesses in Alberta are ready to lead the economy, and your voice will play a vital role as we move forward.
We are asking for your input as the Otipemisiwak Métis Government develops an Economic Reconciliation Strategy.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government recognizes that economic reconciliation is a key element of Métis self-determination.
Please share your views with us by participating in this important survey.
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This survey is open to all Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens who are 18 or older.
Any Citizen who participates in this survey will be entered to win a two-night stay in a sky watching dome at Métis Crossing!
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Promoting & Increasing Cultural Safety
Our Consultation Department wants to hear from our women, youth aged 16 to 29, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Citizens from across the province!
Attend our engagements and share your thoughts on how we can help you connect with your Métis community and culture as we travel throughout the province. Participants are eligible for an honorarium.
Stay tuned for upcoming Fort McKay dates in October!
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We Want To Hear From You
Our Consultation Department wants to continue discussions with Citizens surrounding species at risk in Canada, specifically those listed under the Government of Canada's Species at Risk Act (SARA).
Through this survey and upcoming educational engagements, Citizens can provide perspectives on SARA to inform the consultation process, which is critical to support Métis rights in relation to species at risk.
Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey through the link below and let your voice be heard!
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Coming Soon: Mêtawêtan Early Learning & Child Care Centre
A proud milestone for the Otipemisiwak Métis Government and Métis families across Alberta.
Opening soon in Griesbach (Edmonton), Mêtawêtan Early Learning and Child Care Centre will be the first early learning centre owned and operated by the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. Designed for children aged 19 months to 5 years, the centre will offer 72 licensed spaces in a vibrant, culturally grounded environment.
| | This is more than childcare, it’s a place where our youngest Citizens can learn, grow, and connect to who they are. | | | |
Let’s Bust Some Myths And Set The Record Straight!
Myth: FASD only affects certain communities.
Fact: FASD affects people of all cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. All populations where alcohol is used are at risk of FASD.
Myth: You can tell if someone has FASD by looking at them.
Fact: Alcohol during pregnancy has the biggest effect on the brain. Less than 10% of people with FASD show facial characteristics. These characteristics depend on many factors, including when and how much alcohol was consumed during pregnancy.
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Startup Your Day Home!
The Children and Family Services Team at the Otipemisiwak Métis Government is excited to launch the Day Home Startup Pilot Program!
Métis families deserve culturally relevant, reliable child care. This program supports Métis Citizens in opening and operating day homes by offering personal and financial assistance, guidance through licensing, and Métis Cultural Awareness training.
Our goal is to grow Métis-run day homes across Alberta, strengthening community connections and preserving culture for future generations!
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Askîy Wildlife Community Monitor Program
Support our species monitoring efforts! From now until September, each completed form lets you enter for a chance to win a $250 Cabela’s gift card as well as one of two $100 Cabela’s gift cards!
Report your animal sightings and harvests at albertametis.com/wildlife-report.
Questions? Please reach out to environment@metis.org.
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Fish Monitoring Program
It’s fishing season again! Fill out our fishing forms between June 1 and August 31 at albertametis.com/fish-health and be entered to win a $250 Cabela’s gift card.
Your submissions support our Fish Community Monitoring StoryMap, a Citizen-powered resource with information on popular fishing spots, recommended seasons for fishing, and more.
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Out Picking Berries? Share Your Experiences!
Fill out our Berry Harvesting Trip form to help us understand how human activities, weather conditions, and climate change impact the berry-producing species.
Have you already gone berry picking this year? Whether your harvest was successful or not, we want to hear about it! Even unsuccessful harvests can help us better understand what might be affecting the plants we value.
| | Complete the Berry Harvesting Trip form today at albertametis.com/programs-services/berry-health/. To show our appreciation, we’re offering all Citizens who submit forms by October 31 an opportunity to enter a draw for a $250 Cabela’s gift card. We’ll draw a winner and send them the gift card in November. | |
Sustainability Tip
Does your child have a great idea for protecting the environment? Check out Bow Habitat Station’s Environmental Student Action Challenge (ESAC)!
ESAC awards grants of up to $1,000 to student teams who want to research and tackle a local environmental issue. To qualify, students must be in primary or secondary school, have a teacher supervisor, and receive project approval from their school principal.
Applications close on October 31.
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Pathways To Healthy Living | | | |
Navigating Cancer Can Be Challenging, Support Is Available!
Join Wellspring Alberta’s Indigenous Cancer Sharing Circle. Wellspring Alberta’s Indigenous Cancer Sharing Circle provides a safe and welcoming space for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis adults living in Alberta.
First Monday of every month
2 p.m.–3:30 p.m. MST.
Virtual and open to all Indigenous peoples
| | Whether you have been impacted by cancer yourself or through supporting a loved one, this monthly virtual gathering is co-led by an Elder or Knowledge Keeper and a Wellspring program leader, and ensures no one has to face cancer alone. | | | |
Make A Change In Your Nicotine Use!
Join our FREE 8-week Virtual QuitCore program and start your journey!
Evening sessions run on Wednesdays, 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
on Zoom starting September 10, 2025.
Register by September 8 by emailing KHachey@metis.org.
Please include your Métis Citizenship ID number.
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Citizens who complete the program will:
- Receive a “QuitKit”
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Become eligible for a $500 Alberta Blue Cross Benefit Card for Nicotine Replacement Therapies
This program is in partnership with Alberta Health Services.
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District 17 Free Dental Clinic And Community Gathering!
This event is about bringing our community together, improving health, and enjoying quality time with friends. Come for an appointment - stay for the gathering!
September 22–26, 2025
8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Camp-Yogi,
201 Townsend Dr, Anzac
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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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The Cancer Screening Guide Is Now Available!
Cancer screening is your best defense to detect cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable. The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is excited to announce that our Cancer Screening for Wellness (Li Kaansayr Saapwapimiht Oochi Miyooyaan): A Métis Guide for Breast, Cervical, and Colorectal Cancer Screening is now available!
| | This guide outlines the cancer screening guidelines, procedures, questions to ask healthcare providers, how to access screening if you don’t have a primary care provider or need to travel long distances, and more. | | | |
Substance Use Recovery Program
Shakiwayniwayhk, the Substance Use Recovery Program, offers eligible Citizens recovering from substance use disorder individualized support to foster independent and healthy living during the maintenance stage of recovery.
For more information email us at substanceuserecovery@metis.org
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To be eligible for this program, applicants must:
- Be an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen
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Be aged 18 +
- Be a resident of Alberta
- Be in recovery from substance use disorder
- Have completed treatment at a Recovery Alberta-approved residential or inpatient program in the past 12 months
OR
Be actively engaged and stabilized for 6 months through a Recovery-Alberta-accredited outpatient treatment program and have this confirmed by your outpatient treatment team*
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Métis Youth Art Contest – Orange Shirt Day 2025
Join our Youth Art Contest and have your artwork printed on your very own t-shirt!
The winning design will be worn by the Youth Department and made available for purchase ahead of Orange Shirt Day / National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2025.
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Contest Rules:
- Must be a Métis youth Citizen aged 12–29
- Artwork must be original, Métis-specific, and connected to the Every Child Matters movement
- Must include an entry form and email artwork to youth@metis.org
Deadline: August 31, 2025
Voting starts online on September 3! Stay tuned to our socials to vote for your favourite design!
Questions? Contact us at youth@metis.org
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Call For Artists!
Are you a Métis Artist? Join us at our Artist Market for our 3rd Annual MIYOOAYAAN Wellness Summit in Calgary, Alberta!
Requirements:
- Must be a Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government
- Must reside in Alberta
- Please include your Métis Citizenship card, a short bio, and pictures of your work!
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Deadline to apply is Friday, September 19, 2025, at 12 p.m.!
Friday, November 7 from 4 p.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday, November 8 from 6:30 p.m.–10 p.m.
DoubleTree by Hilton, Calgary
Primary attendees are Métis youth aged 12–29 years old.
Maximum attendance of 170 persons.
Questioms? Email us at youth@metis.org
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3rd Annual MIYOOAYAAN Wellness Summit—Save The Date!
This summit provides a safe space for all Métis youth aged 12–29 to gather, build connections, participate in cultural workshops, and hear from inspirational keynote speakers and panelists.
Registration Opens:
Monday, September 15 at 7 p.m.
Registration Closes:
Friday, September 19 at 4:30 p.m. (or until capacity is reached!)
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Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
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Métis Crossing Featured by Lonely Planet!
We’re honoured to be highlighted by Lonely Planet in their latest article, “Where to find the best Indigenous cuisine in Alberta.”
From our farm-to-table dining to dishes inspired by generations of Métis tradition, our culinary story is one you can taste in every bite.
See why Métis Crossing is a must-visit for food lovers
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Where Culture Meets Comfort: Stay At Métis Crossing
Looking for a place to rest, reconnect, and experience something unforgettable? Métis Crossing offers unique ways to stay—each one rooted in Métis culture and designed for comfort, connection, and exploration.
Sky Watching Domes – Gaze at the stars from our custom-designed domes in one of Alberta’s most awe-inspiring dark sky preserves.
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The Lodge at Métis Crossing – Relax in boutique accommodations steeped in history, overlooking the North Saskatchewan River.
Métis Crossing Camping – Embrace the outdoors with traditional trapper tents, RV sites, and peaceful riverbank campgrounds.
Whether you’re seeking serenity, adventure, or cultural immersion, Métis Crossing has the perfect stay for you.
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Connect With The kisîhtoskâtonaw Métis Art Collective
At kisîhtoskâtonaw Métis Art Collective, we honour the creativity found in every craft and art form. Whether you are a beader, weaver, embroiderer, quilter, textile artist, musician, or performer we encourage you to embrace your Métis identity through your artistry.
Additionally, we acknowledge that artwork produced by Métis artists is regarded as Métis art, regardless of whether it adheres to traditional techniques.
| | Send us an email and introduce yourself and your creations as well as any questions about the collective metisart@metis.org | | | |
Start Your Tattoo Journey!
Rupertsland Institute and the Alberta College of Body Art have drawn up another cohort for our Tattoo Artist Training.
Enter into a 6 month training intensive for tattoo artistry with all necessary materials included and safety certifications earned while you learn. The majority of this project is in person at the Alberta College of Body Art in Grande Prairie Alberta from September 2 to February 20 with the first 5 weeks online.
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What you will study:
- Tattoo Linework
- Tattoo Theory and Safety
- Shading Your Work
Applications are now open until August 22, 2025.
All applicants must demonstrate analog (pen and paper) artistic ability to qualify.
Email Carmella at cmackey@rupertsland.org for more information about this program.
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Share Your Experiences!
Rupertsland Institute (RLI) wants you to share your experiences as a student and/or alumni who has received support from RLI! Plus, you will receive a piece of RLI swag of your choosing — a hoodie, t-shirt, or a backpack!
Visit the RLI Mobile Unit (RV) at Citizens' Gathering on August 22 & 23, 2025 to help us continue to grow the Otipemisiwak Métis Student and Alumni Community. We will be capturing student and alumni stories through videos, audio, and photos, which will later be shared with the community as promotional materials.
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Whether it was education, training, a Métis Scholar Award or perhaps we helped you find employment, we want to hear your story! Simply sign-up using the form below, we will confirm a time/day slot, and then visit us to capture your story.
Can't attend during the Citizens' Gathering? Let us know and we may be able to arrange alternative days/times to capture your experiences!
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