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Dear Citizens,
July has been an exciting and busy month for us so far with Canada Day, the Rocky View District and Parks Canada event at Lake Louise, and the Calgary Stampede!
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As we celebrated Canada Day, we also celebrated the diversity that enriches our Nation, especially the contributions of Indigenous peoples like the Métis in shaping the Canada we know today. Louis Riel was rightfully recognized earlier this year by the Government of Manitoba as the province’s first Premier. His contributions, and those of the entire Métis Nation, shaped the geography and heritage of the Canada we know today.
The Rocky View District and Parks Canada event at Lake Louise was a huge success. From experiencing the iconic Red River cart and trappers’ tent, to Bannock tasting and Michif lessons, each activity was designed to honour and share our traditions and culture.
The Calgary Stampede, a staple in Alberta, was another highlight of the month. I had the pleasure of attending a number of events including events put on by Indigenous Tourism Alberta, Equal Voice and Equal Voice Calgary, the Government of Alberta, and Public Affairs Association of Canada.
One of the opportunities I had was having the chance to chat with Premier Danielle Smith at a Stampede event.
As summer continues, I am optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we will celebrate our heritage, advocate for our rights, and build a bright future for all members of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
Sincerely,
President Andrea Sandmaier
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Citizens’ Gathering of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Métis Nation within Alberta will gather for the 96th time at the annual Citizens’ Gathering of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government to be held on August 16 & 17, 2024 at the Edmonton Expo Centre in Edmonton, Alberta.
Visit our website for more info.
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Citizen Highlight - Sheena Bradley and Maddie Amyotte
We are proud to celebrate Sheena Bradley and Maddie Amyotte, two remarkable Citizens and co-founders of the Ihkapaskwa Collective and Aunties within Reach Program in the Wood Buffalo region. Their program bridges the gap between westernized health and wellness services and traditional ways of healing for Indigenous families through the reclamation of traditions and culture.
Their dedication to enhancing community health and well-being has earned them the 2024 Patient Experience Award from the Health Quality Council of Alberta. Their work was also recently showcased on Episode 5 of Bears Lair. Sheena and Maddie are shining examples of how passion and perseverance can bring about meaningful change. Congratulations, Sheena and Maddie, for your incredible achievements and for making a lasting impact in our community. Keep inspiring us all!
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Métis Nation within Alberta Mourns the Passing of
Artist Alex Janvier
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government was saddened to learn of the passing of world-renowned Indigenous artist, Alex Janvier. Alex’s masterpieces, including his expansive floor mosaic at Edmonton’s Rogers Place, are not only famous within Indigenous circles, but worldwide. Our government says prayers of comfort and healing to his family and friends.
His memory will be cherished by our Métis relations who were blessed to have close friendships with Alex, and he will be deeply missed by the greater Cold Lake community.
While the world lost a talented artist, his spirit will live on through his artwork.
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Askîy Berry Health Community Monitor Program
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.
Have you already gone berry picking this year? If you remember the details, please fill out the forms!
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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.
Help us monitor the species that are important to you by telling us about your fishing activities, what you’re catching, how the fish taste, and more.
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Help Protect Alberta's Fish And Their Habitat
Are you looking for a new place to explore, connect with nature, or engage in land-use activities?
If so, our online tool is for you!
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.
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Discover over 1,000 conservation lands near you.
Go to albertametis.com/CLAD to 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 managing organizations for sites you are interested in visiting before your trip.
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Sustainability Tip Of The Week
Did you know you can make a box fan filter to help prevent smoke indoors?
As communities around the country continue to experience wildfires, experts are advising people to stay inside to avoid the health effects of smoke exposure. However, it is also important to consider your indoor air. If your home lacks an air filter system, consider making a box fan filter! Box fan filters are simple, relatively low-cost, and effective at cleaning indoor air.
All you need to make a box fan filter is a box fan, a furnace filter, and some duct tape or bungee cords to hold the furnace in place.
See how you can build one for your home!
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Pathway To Healthy Living | | |
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We Are Here, And We Are Listening
Recovery journeys can be lonely paths to navigate. We have a community to help you along the way.
Connections in Recovery is designed as a safe space for individuals, friends, and family whose lives are affected by addiction.
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Join us every Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to connect and build friendships in support and solidarity with each other’s recovery process.
Gatherings take place weekly with sharing circles featuring a special guest on the first and third Tuesday of every month.
No registration is required. Come down to our new venue at the Métis Veteran’s Building (12308 – 111 Avenue) or join us online.
For more information about this program or if you need additional support, please contact health@metis.org.
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Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) Program
Are you looking to make a change in your nicotine use but aren’t sure where to go for support? We might be able to help you.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is hosting a virtual info session on our Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) Program. This session will walk you through the steps required to enroll in the NRT Program.
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Attendees who complete the info session and two additional meetings with our Community Prevention Practitioner will be eligible to enroll in the NRT Program and receive a $500 Alberta Blue Cross Benefits Card for Nicotine Replacement Therapies and Cessation Medications.
Our Community Prevention Practitioner, Kyla, will be available to answer your nicotine-related questions and will help you start your journey of change on the right foot. For more information, contact Kyla at KHachey@metis.org
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Yoga And Meditation Classes
Centre yourself with breathwork, relaxation, and movement at our Weekly Yoga and Meditation classes.
Wednesday
7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Zoom
For more information, contact health@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 meetings 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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Health Research Opportunities
Share your voice and perspective on improving health research and services for Métis people.
Our Health Research Partners are inviting Citizens to participate in the following studies:
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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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Find your Citizens’ Council Representative or District Captain! | |
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:
July 13 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
July 20 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
July 27 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
We're also coming to these locations:
July 17 in Lloydminster from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Bioclean Aquatic Centre
July 18 in Edson from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Edson Friendship Centre
July 23 in Lethbridge from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Lethbridge
July 24 in Brooks from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the JBS Canada Centre
July 30 in Airdrie from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Genesis Place
July 31 in Drumheller from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Badlands Community Facility
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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