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This week, I travelled to Ottawa to represent the Otipemisiwak Métis Government at the Canada–Métis Summit with Prime Minister Mark Carney.
I came with a clear mandate from our Citizens to show Canada we’re ready to collaborate, be consulted, and partner on projects that benefit everyone.
The Prime Minister listened. He acknowledged our government and committed to exploring the solutions we brought forward.
I reminded Canada that Métis people helped build this country and we’re ready to help build it again. We support responsible development, and we have workers, businesses, and youth ready to step up.
But to succeed, we must be at the table both federally and provincially. With over 73,000 Citizens, we are builders, doers, and partners.
We’re ready to run as fast as Canada will run with us.
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Notice of Meeting
The Chair of Citizens’ Council wishes to advise Citizens that the next meeting of the Citizens' Council will be on August 13, 2025, open from 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. at the DoubleTree West (16615 109 Ave NW, Edmonton) in the Palisades Ballroom.
Food and beverages will not be provided. Please bring your Citizenship ID card with you, or another form of Government-issued Identification.
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Notice of Vote
On October 20–27, 2025, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government will be holding the following District Captain and Council elections.
District Captain and Council elections will be held for Lac Ste. Anne Métis District, Fort McMurray Métis District, and Lesser Slave Lake Métis District.
Make your voice heard and help shape the future of our Nation! You can vote in-person, electronically, or by mail.
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The True Canadians Latest Episode: Harrison Ford Need Not Apply
Of Métis descent, Kisha Supernant is the Director of the Institute of Prairie and Indigenous Archeology and Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Alberta.
In her discussion with host David Wylynko, Supernant explains the difference between archeology and anthropology, and delves into the need to upend a history of non-Indigenous academics dominating the tale of Indigenous history.
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Supernant describes the importance of Exploring Métis Identity Through Archaeology (EMITA), a collaborative research project that takes a relational approach to exploring the material past of Métis communities.
Listen to the latest episodes below:
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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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Join Us In Celebrating 97 Years Of Gathering!
Citizens’ Gathering will take place at Métis Crossing on August 21 to 24, 2025.
The banquet will take place August 23 at 6 p.m. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.
Banquet tickets will be available at the Citizens’ Gathering information table.
Check out an array of beautiful Métis artwork for sale at this year’s Citizens’ Gathering!
The Artists’ Market will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., August 22 and 23.
Visit the website or email us at mna@metis.org. We can’t wait to see you there!
Citizens’ Gathering will be livestreamed on YouTube and available for viewing both Friday, August 22, and Saturday, August 23. Stay tuned for further details.
Don't forget to RSVP!
| | Please note: RSVPs are used only to estimate attendance. No confirmation emails will be sent, and everyone is welcome to join. Thank you! | | | | |
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Citizen Survey on Economic Reconciliation
Our 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.
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Please share your views with us by participating in this important survey.
This survey is open to all Citizens of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government 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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We Are Coming To You!
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.
See links below for more information!
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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.
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Your feedback will:
- Help shape upcoming SARA engagement and educational sessions.
- Inform reporting to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER).
- Support ongoing efforts to ensure Métis rights are protected in species at risk decision-making.
Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey and let your voice be heard!
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Breaking Barriers: Supporting Métis Early Learners
Discover how the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Children and Family Services Department is making early learning more inclusive through the Flourishing Futures Program—an initiative that helps Métis families access funding and resources for ELCC-aged children.
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
6 p.m.–7 p.m. MST
Online via Zoom
| | Join Tania Kruk, Early Years Manager, for a virtual information session on how this program is reducing barriers, reflecting Métis culture, and supporting children to thrive. | | | |
Connect, Learn &Celebrate at Calgary Métis Mingle
Join the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Children and Family Services, in partnership with MP Psychology, for a free, one-day event focused on Métis well-being through connection, culture, and learning.
Saturday, August 19, 2025
9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Sandman Hotel & Suites Calgary South
With separate sessions for children, youth, parents, and caregivers, the day includes hands-on activities, mental health workshops, cultural experiences, and snacks throughout.
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Métis families living within two hours of Calgary are invited!
Note: Registration required for adults 18+. Space is limited.
Come together with community.
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Métis Families, This One’s for You—Explore Métis Culture Together!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government's Children and Family Services Department is thrilled to announce the launch of the Métis Culture Card Collection!
This starter bundle includes:
- Series 1: "Who Are the Métis?"
- Series 2: "Métis Mîcôwin (Foods)"
Perfect for early learners, these cards are a fun and engaging way to discover Métis culture, history, and traditions as a family.
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Eligibility:
- Reside in Alberta
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Be the legal guardian of a child aged 0–11
- Either the parent/guardian or child must be a registered Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen
- Complete the application process
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Nurturing Connections: Registration is Closing Soon!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government Children and Family Services Department is thrilled to invite you to Nurturing Connections: Métis Family Gathering, happening October 24–26, 2025 at the Wyndham Hotel in Edmonton, Alberta.
This special gathering is all about connection, culture, and community. Métis children and families are invited to come together in a warm, welcoming space filled with family-friendly activities rooted in Métis traditions, values, and ways of knowing.
| | Space is limited and spots will go fast don’t wait! | | | | |
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Askîy Wildlife Community Monitor Program
Tell us about your wildlife observations to support our province-wide monitoring efforts!
Report your animal observations and harvests today at albertametis.com/wildlife-report. Your animal observations and harvests will help the Otipemisiwak Métis Government advocate for Métis-led management and protection of wildlife in Alberta.
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From now until September, each completed form lets you enter for a chance to win a $250 Cabela’s gift card.
Bonus giveaways! For the September giveaway, you can also enter for a chance to win one of two $100 Cabela’s gift cards when you submit a form.
Winners will be contacted in September. For more information, contact environment@metis.org.
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Conservation Land Access Dashboard
Did you know that hunting is permitted on many conservation sites in Alberta? If you are looking for a new spot to hunt, consider utilizing our Conservation Land Access Dashboard (CLAD)!
This online tool assists users in identifying conservation sites that permit activities such as camping, traditional plant gathering, hunting, and more.
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Discover over 1,000 conservation sites across the Districts at albertametis.com/CLAD and plan your next adventure today!
Note: CLAD provides summaries for each site and is not the primary source of information. Please confirm acceptable activities with the managing organizations for the sites you wish to visit before your trip.
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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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Sustainability Tip
It’s festival season! Reducing our environmental impact helps keep our planet festival-ready for years to come.
Celebrate the summer without leaving a trace with these easy tips:
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- Bring a reusable water bottle.
- Reduce your carbon footprint by carpooling or taking public transit.
- Support local food vendors and always sort your trash (e.g., garbage, recycling, compost, bottles).
- Wear an outfit you already own or borrow one from a friend instead of buying something new.
- Take all your belongings with you when leaving the grounds.
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Conservation Champions Club
Ready to take action for wildlife and the environment? The Conservation Champions Club is a fun, year-long program designed just for teens who want to make a real difference. You will connect with other youth who care about the planet, explore big environmental questions, and gain hands-on experience with real-world conservation work.
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Who Can Apply: Teens aged 14–17 who are passionate about conservation.
(Note: students must be entering grades 10–12 in September 2025.)
FREE to attend! Applications close August 10
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Pathways To Healthy Living | | | |
Are You Navigating Cancer? You Are Not Alone.
Join Wellspring Alberta’s Indigenous Cancer Sharing Circle. Navigating cancer can be challenging, but support is available. 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. | | | |
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
- 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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Lethbridge Jig n’ Jam— Event Postponed!
Enjoy a classic Métis kitchen party filled with music, dance, and good company! Nicole Acuna will be leading mini jigging lessons and teaching how to play the wooden spoons, and Billy Joseph will be bringing the fiddle tunes!
Postponed till
September 12, 2025
6 p.m.–9 p.m.
Holiday Inn Lethbridge
2375 Mayor Magrath Drive S, Lethbridge
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Calling all musicians—bring your fiddle, guitar, or spoons and join the jam!
Don’t forget your jigging shoes!
Open to everyone—no registration needed!
Let’s dance, play, and celebrate together! Questions? Contact Kristen Acuna at kacuna@metis.org
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Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
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Join us for the Annual District Gathering of the Calgary Elbow Métis District — a time to come together, share your voice, and help shape the future of our community.
Whether you’re a long-time Citizen or newly registered, this gathering is your opportunity to:
- Get updates on key developments and district priorities
- Share your insights and feedback
- Ask important questions that matter to you and your family
- Connect with fellow Citizens and District Councillors
August 17, 2025
1 p.m.–3 p.m.
Kingsland Community Hall, Calgary
Attend in person — your voice matters!
This annual District Gathering is held in accordance with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Laws and District Bylaws. Quorum requires 10 eligible Citizens, so your participation is vital!
All Citizens of the Calgary Elbow Métis District are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Let’s come together, reflect on where we’ve been, and plan where we’re going. Your voice matters.
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Join kisîhtoskâtonaw For A Zine Workshop!
Métis artists are vital in shaping Métis identity, serving as knowledge holders and cultural ambassadors. Zines offer a means for artists to share their stories through physical publications across the Métis Homeland.
All materials provided! As you cut, paste, and sketch, you'll find inspiration in the vibrant community around you.
Join our collective staff/local emerging artists in welcoming you to our new gallery/retail space for an afternoon of laughing, crafting and sharing.
Space is limited!
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We're Seeking Proposals!
Join us and be there for the official launch of En Roo — a powerful new platform built by Métis students, for Métis students.
August 13, 2025
Doors at 5 p.m | Launch at 5:30 PM
TELUS World of Science, Edmonton
Come out for an evening of connection, discovery, and celebration! Enjoy cookies, coffee, and a live demo of how En Roo is set to change the game for Métis students pursuing Post-Secondary Education.
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Northwest Tattoo Artist Training Project
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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Registry Has A New Email Address!
To better represent the Registry Department’s important role with Otipemisiwak Métis Government, the department has updated its email address.
Starting immediately, citizenship@metis.org will be the new email address to contact our Registry Department.
We encourage you to reach out to citizenship@metis.org for any needs surrounding Métis Citizenship and the application process.
Emails sent to registry@metis.org will be redirected to the department’s inbox. We encourage you to use our new email address to ensure timely responses and streamlined communication.
Thank you for remaining connected with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Registry Department. We look forward to staying in touch!
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