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Dear Citizens,
On May 23, 2024, we launched our petition, advocating for critical reforms to the Parole Board of Canada (PBC).
This initiative was born out of the tragic events of 2020, where Maurice Cardinal and his nephew, Jacob Samsom, were tragically killed by Anthony Bilodeau while exercising their harvesting rights.
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In a deeply concerning decision, Anthony’s father, Roger Bilodeau, was granted day parole by the PBC in February this year.
I'm proud to share that our petition, sponsored by Blake Desjarlais, the Member of Parliament for Edmonton Griesbach, has garnered nearly 2,000 signatures as of late July.
The petition emphasizes the need for transformative changes in the PBC’s case hearing procedures. Our specific demands include the implementation of cultural training for board members and the involvement of the victim’s community in hearings, especially when the victim is Indigenous, and their Indigeneity may have influenced the offense.
This initiative is just one piece of our ongoing work to advocate for justice and the protection of our community's rights. As we look forward to the rest of the summer, we remain dedicated to building a future that honours our people.
Together, we will continue to make strides towards a brighter future for all members of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. If you have not signed the petition, please click the following link to add your name to our call for much-needed change.
Sincerely,
President Andrea Sandmaier
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Emergency Resources —Wildfires
Our thoughts are with the community members of Jasper and the families that are being affected by wildfires across Alberta. The Otipemisiwak Métis Government's Environment and Climate Change Department has gathered resources and information to support you in an emergency on our website.
This includes:
- staying informed through active emergency alerts
- updates on air quality and other factors that may affect physical or mental health
- information when preparing to evacuate or evacuating
- provincial and federal financial assistance resources
- resources available through the Otipemisiwak Métis Government such as the wellness program
- general information on how to be prepared in the case of an emergency
Please reach out to wildfires@metis.org if you have any questions. If you have been personally affected by wildfire you can also reach out to the Citizens’ Representative in your district with specific questions or concerns.
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Inaugural Citizens' Gathering
Join us for the inaugural Citizens’ Gathering August 16 – 17, 2024, at the Edmonton Expo Centre.
This is your chance to make your voice heard, connect with community, and celebrate being Métis at our 96th Gathering.
Don’t forget to RSVP! Visit our website to learn how to do so and for more information.
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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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Government Reports and Citizens' Proposals
For the past 95 years, we have gathered to listen to our community guide our Nation.
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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There's Something For Everyone At The Métis Cup!
From beading with Kyla, to delicious BBQ and lively jigging, come celebrate with us August 2 – 4. We’ll have a photographer on site to capture all the fun. Participants can look forward to sharing these memorable moments!
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Your Voice Matters!
Transport Canada has proposed updates to the current pleasure craft licencing requirements, which may affect you.
These changes include:
• A new five-year validity period for all pleasure craft licences;
• Reducing the timeframe for licence holders to update their contact information, from 90 days to 30 days;
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• Requiring new pleasure craft owners to apply for the transfer of a pleasure craft licence upon purchase;
• A new $24 service fee for pleasure craft licence services, such as: issuance of a pleasure craft licence, renewal of a pleasure craft licence, transfer of a pleasure craft licence, and request for a replacement pleasure craft licence.
• Expanding the Minister of Transport’s authority to cancel a pleasure craft license for noncompliance or upon a licence holder’s request.
We want to hear from you!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government Consultation Department is running this survey to understand how these changes might impact Métis Citizens who own and use boats for fishing and other rights practices.
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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!
Harvesting refers to hunting, trapping, fishing, and gathering and has been, and continues to be, an integral part of Métis culture and way of life.
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Listen in as we discuss:
· Harvesting rights
· Harvesting areas
· How to get a harvesting card
· And answer your questions!
If you have any questions, please reach out to climate@metis.org.
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Sustainability Tip Of The Week
Want to have access to fresh veggies? Want to get your hands dirty in some fresh soil? Don’t have your own plot of land to fit a garden? Join a community garden.
Community gardens are spaces where people come together to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Alberta has several community gardens that foster a sense of community, promote sustainable practices, and provide fresh produce.
To find a community garden near you check out your local municipal office, library, or try a Google search. If you live near Lesser Slave Lake email region5@metis.org to join their Métis Community Garden!
Edmonton Area | Calgary Area
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Pathway To Healthy Living | | |
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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.
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.
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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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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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Cynthia Hamar Band With Special Guest Brianna Lizotte
Join us for a live concert with the Cynthia Hamar Band and special guest Brianna Lizotte!
Sunday, August 4
7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Métis Crossing
Experience Cynthia Hamar’s powerful music and Brianna Lizotte’s fiddle performance. Supporting musicians include Paul Johnston on bass, Chris Andrews on keys, and Tim Neilson on drums.
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No registration required—walk-ins welcome!
Reservations
Adults: $30
Youth & Seniors: $20
Kids under 12: FREE
*Enjoy a variety of food and drink options available for purchase.
For inquiries, please call 780-656-2229 or email metiscrossing@metis.org
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Otipemisiwak Youth Summer Day Program
Thursday's at our Youth Building are about to get a whole lot busier! Join us for a full day of summer programs for Métis youth!
Otipemisiwak Youth Summer Day Program offers a full day of activities for youth aged 12 — 29, providing lunch, snacks, and drinks. All materials for activities will be provided!
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2SLGBTQ+
Beading Circle
Join us for our first 2SLGBTQ+ beading circle!
Experienced beadwork artist Ella Thomson (Maybeads) will walk participants through a beading craft, while also providing a space to talk and work together.
2SLGBTQ+ citizens and allies alike are encouraged to register.
This cohort is designed for youth ages 18 – 29 years old!
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Find your Citizens’ Council Representative or District Captain! | | |
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5th Annual Marlene Lanz Golf Tournament – September 13, 2024
The Marlene Lanz Memorial Golf Tournament is an opportunity for golf enthusiasts to come together and pay tribute to an extraordinary woman who left a lasting mark on the Métis community.
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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:
July 27 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
August 8 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
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:
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
August 7 in Athabasca from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex
August 20 in Lac La Biche from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Region 1 Office
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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