President's Corner

Let us stand together to ensure that Metis victims receive the respect, support, and justice they rightfully deserve

The recent decision by the Parole Board of Canada to grant day parole to Roger Bilodeau, convicted in connection with the deaths of Métis hunters Jacob Sansom and Maurice Cardinal, has sparked concern and outcry among Citizens and the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. 

In response, we have launched a petition urging the Government of Canada to prioritize the voices and experiences of Métis victims in decision-making processes.

The petition specifically calls for cultural safety training for Parole Board members, reforms to Policy 2.1 to consider systemic and cultural factors in cases involving Indigenous or Black victims, and the inclusion of the victim’s community in Parole Board hearings. 


This initiative aims to address the systemic marginalization of Métis voices in the Canadian justice system and ensure that victims receive the justice and support they deserve. 


Show your support and sign the petition today.

Sign The Petition

Métis Fest 2024

Alberta Metis Fest, 2024. June 21-22, Metis Crossing. Lets celebrate our beautiful Metis culture and traditions together!

Get Ready For Métis Fest 2024!


Let's celebrate our beautiful Métis culture and traditions together!


Join us at Métis Crossing on June 21 – 22 for our 6th Annual Alberta Métis Fest!


This year experience the Métis Jamboree, Jigging Competitions, Living Fiddle Legends, Artisan Market, Family Activities, Bingo, Food Trucks, and Much More!

Check It Out
Alberta Metis Fest 2024. Bingo, June 21, 2024. Friday Night Fun, Bingo, Metis Kitchen Party Fish Fry, Open Mic Night, and more! Win prizes!

Bingo

Friday, June 21


Join us from 4 – 6 p.m. for a fun-filled night of Bingo! Take your chance to win some amazing prizes.

Alberta Metis Fest, 2024. Jigging Contest. Register on June 22 at Metis Crossing! Age categories: Mini Metis - Ages 0-6, Junior - Ages 7 - 11, Youth - Ages 12- 17, Adult - Ages 18 - 59, Senior - Ages 60+. Win up to $500

Jigging Contest

Saturday, June 22


Showcase your Métis pride for a chance to win cash prizes!

Call For Food Trucks. We are looking for food truck vendors. Estimated 2,500 - 3,000 attendees, no charge for vendors, contact cpaul@metis.org by May 31, 2024.

Call For Food Trucks!


Serve your delicious offerings to an estimated 2,500 – 3,000 attendees, free of charge!


Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity!

Sign Up
Alberta Metis Fest 2024. Call for Artisans. Join our artisan market! Must be Metis, must reside in Alberta, contact cpaul@metis.org by May 31st, 2024. Showcase your talent, apply now!

Call For Artisans!


Are you Métis with an artisan business? Showcase your talent!


Requirements:

• Must be Métis

• Must reside in Alberta

Sign Up

Happy Pride Month

Celebrate Love


Pride Month is a time to celebrate inclusion, diversity, and love. It is an opportunity to be seen, heard, understood, and accepted.


The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is proud of and honours our Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ Citizens and offers our ongoing love and support to community members and allies!


Check out our Pride Month resources.

Coming Up

25th Annual Audrey Poitras Golf Tournament. All proceeds go to the Otipemisiwak Metis Government Benevolent Fund. June 14, Legends Golf Course 53541 Range Road 232 Sherwood Park. For more information or to register your team, please contact Kyla Blumentrath at 780-455-2200 or kblumentrath@metis.org

June Is National Indigenous History Month!


This month, we are celebrating the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous peoples across Canada.


Together, let's honour the past, celebrate the present, and pave the way for a brighter future for the Métis and all Indigenous peoples. 

25th Annual Audrey Poitras Golf Tournament. All proceeds go to the Otipemisiwak Metis Government Benevolent Fund. June 14, Legends Golf Course 53541 Range Road 232 Sherwood Park. For more information or to register your team, please contact Kyla Blumentrath at 780-455-2200 or kblumentrath@metis.org

25th Annual Audrey Poitras Golf Tournament


The 25th Annual Audrey Poitras Golf Tournament is returning June 14 to the Legends Golf and Country Club.


Register a team or become a sponsor! Proceeds will go towards the Métis Nation of Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Benevolent Fund to support our grieving Citizens through their time of loss.

Sign up a team of four, become a sponsor, or learn more by contacting Kyla at kblumentrath@metis.org or phone 780-455-2200.

Player Callout. 28 spots available. Visit Metiscup.ca

Métis Cup


There’s still time to sign up for the 2nd Annual Métis Cup! We are looking for 28 U9 players, a U9 goalie, and a U18 goalie to join our teams. 


We are only accepting: 

  • U9 players born in 2015 or 2016.  
  • U18 players born in 2006, 2007, or 2008. 


If you are interested in playing, please contact us at MetisCup@gmail.com for more information.  

Justice

Join us for Our Justice Series Educational Presentation: Parole Board Hearing Process and Victim Services Canada with the Otipemisiwak Metis Government Justice Department and the Parole Board of Canada. Online, June 12, 6 - 8 pm. Register by June 10, albertametis.com/justice_series

Justice Education Series


Do you have questions about the Parole Board hearing process and Victim Services Canada?


Join us for the second Justice Series educational presentation by the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) on the Parole Board hearing process.


Knowledge is power, and we desire to empower our Citizens.

With the event approaching quickly, now is the time to register for your spot.


June 12

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. MST

Zoom


Register by June 10. Upon registration, you will be sent the Zoom link.


For questions, please email justice@metis.org

Register Here

Sustaining Our Future

The Conservation Land Access Dashboard (CLAD). Did you know hunting is permitted on many conservation sites in Alberta. If you are looking for a new spot to hunt, consider using our newly released Conservation Land Access Dashboard to explore hunting conservation sites near you.

Discover Over 1,000 Conservation Lands Near You


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.

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.

Traditional Plant Walk, Peace River, June 8, 1 - 4 pm
Traditional Plant Walk, June 9, Slave Lake, 1 - 4 pm

Traditional Plant Walks


Registration for Peace River and Slave Lake is now open. Sign up today!


Learn about traditionally utilized plants on a guided walk with Métis cultural educator Natalie Pepin. You will better understand the plants around us, their cultural significance, and how they can help us. 

Sign Up For Peace River
Sign Up For Slave Lake

Note for Attendees: The event consists of sitting and walking. For your comfort, please bring a portable chair/lawn chair and a reusable water bottle or mug. 

Extra water will be available.


Have questions? Email: Environment@metis.org

Community Bird Walks. Peace River, Saturday, June 8, Queen Elizabeth Park, 9am - 12pm.

Come For A Walk With Our Feathered Friends!


Register for our Community Bird Walks in Peace River!


Embark on a beginner-friendly walk to listen and look for birds. Come learn from the birds around us. 


Peace River

June 8

9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Register Today

About The Event:

Over the course of a three hour walk, listen as a local guide shares stories and discusses the ecological significance of the birds around us. 


Learn More At: albertametis.com/bird-walks


Questions? Please contact Jac Curry, Environment Coordinator at: Environment@metis.org 

Environment & Climate Change. Speaker Spotlight. Sharing the Fishing Line with Kirsten Letendre and Keith Grant. June 10, 6 - 7:30 pm. Zoom.

Sharing The Fishing Line: Upcoming Speaker Spotlight


What does Métis knowledge tell us about fish health?


Join us virtually June 10 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. MST for our upcoming Speaker Spotlight as we introduce you to the new Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s “Fish Health Guide: Ann Paar Kord di Pwason (Sharing the Fishing Line).”

You will also get the chance to listen to knowledgeable and passionate Métis harvesters, Kirsten Letendre and Keith Grant, both of which were involved in the development of this guide. 


They will shed light on fishing, fish health, and environmental stewardship using a Métis lens. Métis Citizens who attend this session have a chance to receive 1 of 50 guidebooks! After the session, the guidebook can be found at the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Provincial Office in Edmonton while copies are available.


If you have any questions, please reach out to climate@metis.org

Register Here

Sustainability Tip Of The Week


Did you know that you can see local climate change projections for your area?


The Climate Atlas has an interactive map with climate modelling data built in to allow the user to find long term weather changes for their region, including temperature, precipitation, and growing season trends. The tool also has Métis climate information, videos and highlights projects that the MNA has done.

Start Exploring
Learn More About Environment & Climate Change Programs

Pathway To Healthy Living

Connections in Recovery. Join us every Tuesday from 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm to connect and build friendships. No registrations required, come to the youth building (11821 – 123 Street, Edmonton) or join us online at https://albertametis.com/connections.

Connections In Recovery


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. 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.

In-person gatherings take place weekly with the option to participate online via Zoom. Sharing circles featuring a special guest will occur on the first and third Tuesday of every month.


No registration is required. Come down to the Youth Building (11821 – 123 Street), or join us online.

Join Online

We are here, and we are listening. For more information about this program or if you need additional support, please contact health@metis.org.

Weekly yoga and medititation classes, Wednesdays 7:30 - 8:30 pm. Zoom

Take A Deep Breathe And Stretch


Now online at a new time!


Centre yourself with breathwork, relaxation, and movement at our Weekly Yoga and Meditation classes. 


Wednesdays

7:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Online


For more information, contact health@metis.org.

Join Online
Health Research Opportunities

Health Research Opportunities:


Share your voice and perspective on improving health research and services for Métis people.


Your participation helps us to continue to advance Métis perspectives in health services and research with our collaborative partners. 


Our Health Research Partners are inviting Citizens to participate in the following studies:

University of Calgary: Métis Understandings of Brain Health Promotion


University of Calgary: Recognizing Indigenous Voices in Early Rehabilitation (RIVER)


University of Alberta: Measuring Indigenous Health-Related Quality of Life

For more information, reach out to the research contacts directly.

Learn More About Health Programs

Family Building

Uniting Métis Voices: Transforming Care For Our Children

What is happening?


We invite you to participate in the Reclaiming Our Children: Act C.92 Engagement Sessions where together, we will shape a care model for Métis children and families who are currently receiving or are at risk of child intervention services.


Who can participate?


All Citizens of the Otipemisiwak Metis Government are encouraged to join and contribute to the development of the C.92 Model of Care.


Do you have any questions?


Don't hesitate to contact Jordan Weeres at 780-455-2200 ext. 290 or email at jweeres@metis.org for questions and assistance registering for this event.

Join us:

Register for an Engagement Near You
FASD Caregiver Connect Nights - Online. Planning for summer. The FASD Caregiver Connect Night is a safe space for Metis parents, grandparents, and other caregivers of loved ones with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Join us for a discussion about planning for a summer break everyone can enjoy. Wednesday, June 12, 2024. 6 - 7 pm, Zoom.

Discover The Complex World Of FASD


Wondering how to keep calm this summer?


Join us on Wednesday, June 12 as we discuss strategies for summer time.


June 12

6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Online

Register Here
Learn More About CFS Programs

Youth

ATCO Indigenous Education Awards Program. Supporting tomorrows leaders. Application Deadline is August 16, 2024.

2024 ATCO Indigenous Education Awards Now Open


Preference will be given to students from Indigenous communities where ATCO has business operations and interests.


Award Categories:



  • Merit Awards ($750): for students completing Grades 10 – 12.
  • Bursaries ($1,200): for students enrolled in trade/community technical college diploma or certificate program.
  • Scholarships ($1,800): for students enrolled in degree or graduate programs.
  • Bridging Awards ($1,000): for students registered in an upgrading program (Adult Basic Education) or University Preparation program.

Eligibility:


  • Self-identify as Indigenous in Canada (First Nations, Inuit, or Métis)
  • Enrolled full-time in junior/senior high school (including upgrading) or an accredited post-secondary institution or training/certificate program;
  • Not a child of an ATCO employee.


Deadline: August 16, 2024

Apply Today
Voices of Youth Indigenous Leaders 2024

Voices Of Youth Indigenous Leaders 2024


The Senate Committee on Indigenous Peoples is excited to launch Voices of Youth Indigenous Leaders 2024 to spotlight the strengths of present-day Métis, First Nations, and Inuit communities and their inspirational young leaders.


Indigenous youth leaders, aged 18 to 35, are invited to share their leadership experiences and ideas with senators.


To apply, you can either: 


  • Submit a short text (500 words) that will inform the committee’s work; or


  • Submit a digital version of artwork, song, short video (max. 3 minutes) or creative writing (poetry, song lyrics, short story, etc.) accompanied by a short statement (max. 500 words) describing your piece, its themes, your goals and/or your vision. 


Submit your application online or by mail before July 21, 2024 and you could be invited to appear before the Senate Committee on Indigenous Peoples in Ottawa!

Apply Now
Indigenous Junior Police Academy! Wonder what its like to be a police officer? Check out the 2024 Indigenous Junior Police Academy from July 29 - Aug 2. Apply at calgarypolice.ca
Apply Now
Learn More About Youth Programs

The True Canadians Podcast

Host of the True Canadians Podcast, David Wylynko speaks with Juanita Marois, CEO of Métis Crossing

The Project Of All Projects


Host David Wylynko talks with Métis elder Paul Bercier on the True Canadians Podcast about the connection between the Métis’ approach to prosperity and their strong belief in an inherent right to self-determination, self-government, and independence.

Today, that resolve is driving the Métis to seek an ownership stake in the Trans Mountain Pipeline, which Bercier describes as “the project of all projects.”


Tune in to hear how Bercier foresees the pipeline becoming a key component of an environmentally sustainable energy strategy for the future, for both the Métis and Canada as a whole.

Host of the True Canadians Podcast, David Wylynko speaks with Juanita Marois, CEO of Métis Crossing

Heartbeat Of The Métis


Rarely does a Métis gathering occur that doesn’t involve fiddle music.


From kitchen parties to community gatherings to huge events, fiddling is never far from the festivities. 


In this episode, host David Wylynko talks with two highly sought-after Métis fiddlers in Alberta.


Listen Now


Affiliates

Fathers Day BBQ Brunch. Sunday, June 16, 10:30 am to 1pm. Metis Crossing.

Districts

Find your Citizens’ Council Representative or District Captain!

Citizens' Council
District Council

District 2

Learning From The Land: Making Indigenous Vessels


Interested in learning about Indigenous pottery? 


Join educator, activist, and mentor KC Adams in a Ceramic Workshop at Medalta, where over the course of a 5-day workshop you will learn how to harvest and process clay, build and fire vessels, and cook with the pots you have made!


Learn about the spiritual and cultural function of the vessels, reflect on the time of our Indigenous ancestors, and more!


No experience working with clay is needed but it is encouraged. 

Friday, August 9 – Tuesday, August 13

713 Medalta Ave SE, Medicine Hat


Registration Deadline:

Thursday, July 11

Learn More and Register

District 4

Rocky View Métis District Virtual Michif Bingo!


Join Citizens’ Representative Lisa San Filippo for a virtual Michif Bingo game. 


Thursday, June 6

6:30 p.m.

Facebook Live

RSVP to receive your virtual bingo card (click to ‘dab’ each space). Family friendly!

Districts 5 & 6

Elder Talk, George Pambrun. Wisdom of Metis.

Wisdom Of Métis With George Pambrun


Get ready to dive into the rich cultural heritage and wisdom of the Métis people with the knowledgeable George Pambrun at Local 87 Métis Nation of Alberta.


This in-person event promises to be a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate the Métis culture.

Don't miss out on this chance to reminisce on Elder Pambrun's time with the Canadian Forces and his work with Indigenous communities.


June 4

5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Local 87


George will be accompanied by Métis musician Ross “MEMPHIS” Pambrun of Memphis and The Grande – recording artists with over 60,000 listens in 130 countries in the first 3 months post-release of their new album, Songs from the Dirt Road. You’ll get the chance to hear Memphis and Kinger open the June 4, 2024 talk.


Listen to their new album and learn more at www.memphisandthegrande.com


Snacks and beverages will be available.

Get Your Tickets
Metis Woman Gathering, New Dawn

Welcome To The Métis Women's Gathering!


Join us for a day of celebration, connection, and empowerment at Local 87 Métis Nation of Alberta.


This event is a fantastic opportunity for Métis women to come together, share stories, and support each other.


From inspiring speakers to interactive workshops, there's something for everyone.

June 6

5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Local 87


Whether you're a seasoned community member or new to the culture, you're sure to leave feeling uplifted and connected. Don't miss out on this special gathering - mark your calendars now!

Get Your Tickets
Metis seniors bingo and potluck dinner. Come join us for a fun-filled evening of bingo and delicious food at the Local 87 Metis Nation of Alberta in Calgary! June 11, 2024, 5:30 - 8 pm.

Welcome To The Métis Senior Bingo And Potluck Dinner Event!


Join us for an evening filled with fun games of bingo and delicious food at Local 87 Métis Nation of Alberta.


It's a great opportunity to socialize, enjoy some friendly competition, and share a meal with fellow community members.

June 11

5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Local 87


Don't miss out on this chance to connect with others. We look forward to seeing you there!

Get Your Tickets
Metis Mens Gathering

Métis Men's Gathering


Come join us for a day of brotherhood, culture, and community at the Métis Men's Gathering!


Connect with other Métis men, share stories, and celebrate our heritage together.


This in-person event will feature workshops, discussions, and activities focused on empowering and uniting Métis men.

June 13

5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Local 87


Don't miss this opportunity to bond with your fellow brothers and strengthen our community. See you there!

Get Your Tickets
Mamawii Kishkayta: Gather and learn with the Metis. Join us at South Glenmore Park - Weaselhead Flatts. June 14 - 16, 9:30 am - 4 pm

Gather And Learn With The Métis 


Join us for Mamawii Kishkayta, an enriching three-day event where we'll come together to celebrate Métis culture and traditions.


From June 14 to 16, South Glenmore Park will transform into a hub of learning and exploration, featuring a Métis Trapper tent and immersive experiences.

June 14 – 16

9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Weasel Head Flats


Delve into Métis language, cultural practices, and history amidst the picturesque backdrop of Weasel Head Flats. Mamawii Kishkayta is a unique opportunity to connect with Métis heritage and deepen our understanding of this vibrant community.


Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, sunshades, and picnic lunches for a day of fun and learning. Food trucks may be on site.

Stay Up-To-Date With District 5
Stay Up-To-Date With District 6 

District 9

Transition Meetings: Fort Edmonton


Representatives from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government will be in Edmonton on June 3 to meet with Citizens of District 9 to discuss the transition process to the new government.


Your thoughts and input during this process are greatly appreciated.

You are invited to attend the meeting:


June 3, 2024

Edmonton Inn & Conference Centre

11834 Kingsway Avenue

Meeting Room: Wildrose Ballroom 1 & 2


Doors Open: 5:30 p.m.

Opening Prayer, Dinner Buffet: 6 p.m.

Presentations and Question/Answer Period: 7 - 9 p.m.

End of the Event: 9 p.m.

District 11

Transition Meetings: Sherwood Park, St. Albert, & Nisku


Representatives from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government will be in Sherwood Park on June 4, St. Albert on June 5, and Nisku on June 6 to meet with Citizens of District 11 to discuss the transition process to the new government.


Your thoughts and input during this process are greatly appreciated.

You are invited to attend the meetings:


Sherwood Park:

June 4, 2024

Sandman Signature Sherwood Park

901 Pembina Rd. 

Meeting Room: Bison Meadows


St. Albert:

June 5, 2024

St. Albert Inn & Suites

156 St. Albert Trail St.

Meeting Room: Grandin


Nisku:

June 6, 2024

Coast Nisku Inn & Conference Center

1101 - 4th Street, Nisku

Meeting Room: Solarium A



Doors Open: 6:30 p.m.

Snacks, Coffee, and Tea: 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Opening Prayer, Presentations, and Question/Answer Period: 7 – 9 p.m.

End of the Event: 9 p.m.

Register With The Otipemisiwak Métis Government

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:



June 4 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.


June 18 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.


June 19 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.


June 25 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.


June 26 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.



We're also coming to you at these locations:



June 4 in Rocky Mountain House from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Walking Eagle Inn & Lodge


June 5 in Wabasca from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the MD Opportunity Arena


June 11 in Grande Cache from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Grande Cache Inn and Suites


June 18 in Calgary from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Marda Loop Communities Association


June 19 in Calgary from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Falconridge/Castleridge Community Association


June 25 in Red Deer from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the G.H Dawn Community Centre


June 26 in Sylvan Lake from 3:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the NexSource Centre



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!

What You Need to Register

Join The Team!

CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES

Communications Coordinator - Children and Family Services

Early Years Coordinator

Family Preservation and Reunification Worker

Métis Family Connections Liaison


CONSULTATION

Aquatic Habitat Restoration Coordinator

Cumulative Effects Coordinator

Economic Reconciliation Manager

National Urban Parks Liaison


ELECTORAL OFFICE

Deputy Chief Electoral Officer – Office of the Chief Electoral Officer


ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Data and Research Assistant

Environment Coordinator – Fish

Manager - Emergency Management


Health

Research and Project Coordinator (RPC)


INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS

Summer Art Collective Assistant


MÉTIS NATION HOLDINGS

Summer Maintenance Labourer - Smoky Lake

Sustainability Officer – Facilities and Building Operations


SELF GOVERNMENT

Clerk of the Citizens' Council

Clerk of the Judicial Branch

Executive Assistant and Administrative Assistant


YOUTH PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Manager of Provincial Youth Programs & Services

See All Opportunities

June Is National Indigenous History Month

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