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The past few weeks have been a busy and meaningful time for our Métis Government, with opportunities to come together and celebrate the strength of our Nation.
I’ve had the honour of joining Citizens and partners at gatherings across Alberta, including with the City of Edmonton, where we reflected on our shared history. From river lots along the North Saskatchewan River, to the strong partnership we continue to build today.
Earlier this month, we also welcomed Métis entrepreneurs to the Alberta Métis Works Business Mixer in Calgary, with more events coming up in Slave Lake on March 21 and Edmonton on March 23. These gatherings create space to connect, share knowledge, and build new opportunities for Métis business owners and entrepreneurs.
Our government also had important conversations with Métis Veterans, their families, and policymakers about strengthening culturally grounded supports for Métis Veterans.
Across all these events, one thing was clear: our strength comes from connection, community, and working together.
President Andrea Sandmaier,
Otipemisiwak Métis Government
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Secretary Spotlight:
Aura Leddy
Secretary of Environment, Climate Change & Emergency Management, Aurora (Aura) Leddy is a proud two-spirit Métis person who calls Edmonton home. Their family lineage comes from the St. Albert and Lac Ste Anne areas. They are really proud of their Métis heritage. One of the greatest feelings for them is doing a jig on the grass wearing their moccasins.
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When they need to unwind, or are feeling down, they feel that being outside, and on the land is such a therapeutic feeling. The connection is very real. Small sounds, such as water running through a creek, the wind, and even the rain can all be very healing. Secretary Leddy is also passionate about uplifting youth, sharing culture, and building community.
Secretary Leddy’s portfolio reflects a strong commitment to protecting Métis lands, waters, and communities in the face of climate change. They champion the implementation of a comprehensive Métis Climate Strategy that aims to bring together traditional ecological knowledge and modern science to address the unique climate impacts facing Métis communities. Another key priority within their mandate is advocating for the establishment of Otipemisiwak Metis Government-led Protected Conservation Areas that safeguard culturally significant lands and waters while upholding Métis knowledge and harvesting rights. Secretary Leddy’s department also supports the development of Community Resilience Plans that aim to address region-specific vulnerabilities and strengthen Métis-led emergency response systems to better prepare for climate-related emergencies.
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Residential And Day School Survivors: We Invite You
To Share Your Stories!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is launching an archival project to gather and honour the stories of Métis Residential School Survivors and Métis Day School Survivors. Through this work, we hope to preserve and share the history that our Citizens endured in Canada’s residential school system. This history has profoundly impacted our Citizens, yet too often, they are left out of broader conversations or overlooked.
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Through this project, we seek to create a space where Métis stories can be heard, remembered, and respected. The project is guided by the stories of Survivors, family members, and the community.
If you would like to share your story or help ensure this history is remembered, we invite you to fill out the form below.
All personal information and registration details will remain confidential.
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Introducing Our New Métis Community Concert Series!
You’re invited to gather with your community for a night of music and connection. The Métis Community Concert Series will be hosted monthly in our kisihtoskâtonaw Métis Arts Collective space at 10410 95 Street, Edmonton, Alberta.
This month features Métis singer-songwriter and fiddler Darla Daniels.
All are welcome!
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Join us on March 26 from 6 p.m.–7 p.m. for kinship, followed by a live performance from 7 p.m.–8 p.m.
Due to limited space, be sure to register now through the form linked below.
For questions: Alex Kusturok, akusturok@metis.org.
| | The 2026 Promoting & Increasing Cultural Safety (PICS) Leadership Summit | | |
Last month, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Consultation Department hosted the 2026 PICS Leadership Summit, bringing together Métis leaders and community members from across the Métis homeland.
The summit marked the culmination of the PICS program, which began in August 2024 and gathered insights from Métis women, youth, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Citizens through group and one-on-one engagement sessions on cultural safety.
Attendees heard from keynote speakers and panelists who shared perspectives on strengthening cultural safety in Métis communities. The event also featured a variety of cultural workshops, providing participants with opportunities to connect, learn, and engage in Métis cultural practices.
During the summit, the Consultation Department released the Promoting & Increasing Cultural Safety Comprehensive Final Report, which highlights key themes, barriers, and recommendations identified throughout the engagement sessions and discusses how the program findings will be used. The summit created space for reflection, learning, and continued dialogue on how to strengthen cultural safety for Métis Citizens.
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Askîy Wildlife Community Monitor Program
Report your animal sightings and harvest!
Until March, each completed form
lets you enter for a chance to win
a $250 Cabela’s gift card. First-time participants and Citizens who’ve submitted at least one wildlife monitoring form this season can
also enter separate draws for a
$100 Cabela’s gift card.
Questions? Please reach out to environment@metis.org.
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Sustainability Tip:
Learn More About Nature And Biodiversity Action
The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is a global organization that gathers scientific knowledge about how nature is changing and how it affects our lives. The latest assessment report highlights that we’re losing our biodiversity and ecosystems at a troubling rate, and how that affects our food, water, health, and climate.
The good news is that we can still make a difference! The report also highlights the actions we can take to help protect and restore nature.
Want to learn more about what IPBES is doing to tackle these challenges and how you can get involved?
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Pathways To Healthy Living | | | |
Join Us For The Cancer
Peer Support Retreat!
Have you been impacted by cancer? Whether you have been personally diagnosed or have supported someone who has, we invite you to Métis Crossing for a Cancer Peer Support Retreat designed to foster connection, healing, and support.
Please note the retreat is limited to twenty participants selected on a first-come, first-served basis. You will be contacted if selected to participate.
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Two nights of accommodation at Métis Crossing, along with mileage reimbursement at $0.35/km, will be provided.
Let’s connect, support one another, and find strength together.
Please note this event is for those aged 18 and up.
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Child Health Strategy Survey
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Health Department is developing a Child Health Strategy to guide future programs and resources for Métis children and families in Alberta. Your perspectives will help shape this important work.
We invite Métis parents, caregivers and community members (aged 18 and up) to complete our anonymous survey and share your experiences, priorities, and ideas. Your insights will help identify what is working well, where the gaps are, and what matters most for Métis children’s health and wellness in Alberta.
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Participants can enter to win a $250 gift card!
To take the Child Health Survey or to learn more about our maternal and child health research, click the links below.
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Ready To Cut Back Or
Quit Tobacco?
Métis men (aged 18 and up) are invited to join the Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) Program for Men a culturally grounded Online program offering tools, guidance, and support to help you move toward a healthier future.
June 9–11
7 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Online
Complete the program and receive a $500 Alberta Blue Cross benefits card for NRT options.
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Understanding FASD Through A Reconcilliation Informed Lens
Want to make a positive difference in the lives of those with FASD?
Join our online sessions as we explore various aspects of FASD. We share valuable insights, practical strategies, and resources to gain a better understanding of how to engage loved ones with FASD.
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Registration Is Now Open For The Niwicitonan Playgroup!
Our next online playgroup is on Wednesday, April 22!
Connect with other Métis caregivers, celebrate Métis identity, and build community through culture, play, and learning.
Eligible families:
- Children aged 0–5
- Either the child or caregiver
is an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen
- Currently reside in Alberta
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Time To Explore Culture Card Collection Series 3 Métis Makers — Registration Is Open!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Children and Family Services Department is excited to share the Métis Culture Card Collection —
with Series 3: Métis Makers.
Designed for early learners, these fun and engaging cards help families discover and celebrate Métis culture, history, and traditions together.
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Eligibility:
- Reside in Alberta Legal guardian of a child aged 0–11
- Parent/guardian or child is a registered Otipemisiwak Métis
Government Citizen
- Complete the application process
Learn, play, and celebrate Métis culture as a family!
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Mamawi Pimohtetan: Walking Together, Building Strength
Métis men! Please join us for Mamawi Pimohtetan, which means “walking together” in Cree. This weekly men’s group is designed to empower Métis men by strengthening their connection to culture and community while also addressing cycles of family violence.
On Monday evenings through April, all Métis men (Citizens or self-identified) aged 18 and up, are invited to join us virtually on Zoom to learn about boundaries, coping strategies, and healthy relationships while engaging in traditional Métis knowledge.
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This is a valuable opportunity for our men to come together and
grow as a community!
Join us virtually:
Mondays on Zoom from 7 p.m.–9 p.m.
February 2 – April 20
Email justice@metis.org to receive a registration link.
Please note that you may join the meeting at any time.
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Calling All Horse Lovers
To Register for the Last
Few Remaining Spots!
Horses have a powerful way of communicating and can help people develop important life skills! Join us on March 28 in Olds, Alberta, for a one-day Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) workshop designed specifically for Métis men aged 18 and up.
This unique workshop offers Métis men the opportunity to gain valuable insights about themselves, enhance their relational skills, and deepen their understanding of Métis cultural values.
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Applications for the Spring Métis Art Walk & Market Are Closing Soon!
The deadline for Métis artists to apply is Tuesday, March 31. This is your final chance to apply to be part of the event!
There are still spots available in the
Art Walk, where you can showcase and sell your artwork to the community.
Don’t miss this opportunity to share your work and connect with other artists!
Fill out the application form below.
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Alberta Métis Fest Is Back For Its 8th Annual Celebration!
Join us June 12–13 at the Cultural Gathering Centre, Métis Crossing, for two thrilling days filled with Métis culture and community.
Experience the Métis Jamboree, Jigging Competitions, Artist Market, and so much more!
Stay tuned for more details!
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
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Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
District 17: RARA - Citizen Highlight (Fort McMurray) | | |
Congratulations to all the recipients of the 37th Annual RARA - Regional
Aboriginal Recognition Awards. Celebrating Indigenous excellence
and impact across our region!
We’re so proud of our McMurray Métis Citizens:
Cindy Bourque Punko – Leadership & Female Citizen Award
Ashlynn Boostrom – Junior Achievement Award
Kayla Aikins – Art Award
A huge shoutout to our youth, Halle Reid, Isaac Aikins, Tylee Bishop, Eli Aikins, and Ashlynn Boostrom, for an amazing jigging performance, keeping our traditions alive!
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Spring Equinox Celebrations At Métis Crossing
Join us for a full weekend of culture, connection, and celebration as we welcome the season of renewal.
Spring Equinox Market –
Saturday, March 21 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
A free public event featuring Indigenous artisans and local vendors! Bring the family out to enjoy the land with activities like skating, tubing, snowshoeing, and walking trails (weather dependent).
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Equinox Dinner – Saturday, March 21 | 6 p.m.–10 p.m.
Enjoy a Métis-inspired dinner followed by fireside stories with our cultural team. Learn what the land and stars teach us during this sacred time of balance and new beginnings.
Adults $100 | Youth/Seniors $80
Equinox Brunch – Sunday, March 22 | 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Gather for a family-friendly brunch featuring crafts and stories for all ages.
Adults $49 | Youth/Seniors $20
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Featured In National Geographic!
We're thrilled to be highlighted in National Geographic's article "See North America's Night Sky Through an Indigenous Lens"!
The feature showcases our Sky Watching Domes as a premier destination for Indigenous astrotourism, where guests can gaze at the stars and northern lights while connecting with the land and Métis culture.
It's an honour to share this experience on a global stage.
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We're honoured to be featured in Lakeland Today for receiving the Alberta Provincial Indigenous Tourism Leadership Award at the 2026 ITAC Indigenous Tourism Awards!
This recognition celebrates communities using tourism as a vehicle for cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and community well-being.
CEO Juanita Marois shared, "We built this place so that Métis people could be shared and celebrated for generations to come."
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Submit Your Written Success Story To Be Featured!
Rupertsland Institute (RLI) is weaving the story of our impact and we want to hear from YOU about your experience as a student and/or alumni who has received support from RLI!
Whether it was education, training, a Métis Scholar Award, or we helped you find employment, we want to hear your story! These written student and alumni stories will later be shared with the community as promotional materials and within a book.
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All eligible participants will receive a $25 gift card for participating. Your eligibility will be confirmed through email upon receipt of your story and a high-quality headshot.
Stories and headshots generated by AI will NOT be eligible.
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We're Looking For Carpentry And Electrical Apprentices!
Are you a Métis? Are you looking to advance your career into carpentry or electrical trades work?
As an apprentice with the Voyageur Trades Program, you'll work directly with trained journeypeople in your field and learn on the job.
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High Prairie Safety Ticket Training
Ready to get certified?
Rupertsland Institute and Coulee Creek Safety have partnered to give Métis Citizens in our NorthWest region access to Safety Ticket Training.
Over seven days, you'll gain
eight safety tickets including:
- First Aide/CPR
- H2S Alive
- Ground Disturbance
- and more!
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Register Your Kids For Métis Citizenship
Discover exciting cultural experiences, including family camps and youth hangouts. With your Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizenship, you can enjoy free access to national parks in Alberta!
Come to the provincial office (Delia Grey Building, 11738 Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton) from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. We also offer extended hours:
March 28 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Stay up-to-date with future registry drives on our website: albertametis.com/registry-events.
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