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Over the past few weeks, I’ve been reflecting on the responsibility we carry as a government and as a people to honour, uplift, and protect our communities. With Red Dress Day approaching this May 5, reflection feels especially important.
Red Dress Day is a time to remember Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people. Across our communities, red dresses will be displayed as powerful reminders of lives that should still be here, and of the families and communities who continue to carry that loss.
For Métis people in Alberta, this day is also a call to action. Our Citizens deserve to feel safe and supported, which means continuing to push for justice, stronger supports, and systems grounded in compassion and accountability.
That’s why we’re continuing to work to secure long-term, sustainable funding to improve safety, prevention, and support services for Métis women, girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, to expand the Red Dress Alert system beyond Manitoba, to strengthen protections for survivors of domestic violence, and to ensure hate-motivated crimes against Métis people are fully prosecuted within Canada’s justice system.
As we honour this day, we also hold onto resilience. Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people are the heart of our communities.
President Andrea Sandmaier,
Otipemisiwak Métis Government
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From left to right: Teneil Whiskeyjack (Cree), Matthew MacKenzie (Métis) and Christine Sokaymoh Frederick (Métis). Picture taken in Santiago in January, where Punctuate! Theatre and the Pemmican Collective co-produced a new work with Mapuche Indigenous artists in Chile. | |
Secretary Spotlight:
Matthew MacKenzie
Matthew Wishart MacKenzie is a Métis father, husband, playwright, and creative mentor for Métis and Indigenous people across Canada and the globe in theatre and arts spaces.
His lifelong journey in theatre began as a young child actor, where he learnt he wasn’t a fan of acting on stage, but he loved the medium. Now, the accomplished playwright creates spaces for other Métis and Indigenous artists through avenues such as the Punctuate! Theatre in Edmonton, where he is the Artistic Director, and the Pemmican Collective, which strives to connect Indigenous artists across the globe.
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Want to draw the curtain to learn more about Matthew Wishart MacKenzie? Read the full spotlight in the link below.
Are you an Indigenous artist, playwright, and/or creative interested in connecting with Matthew? You can reach him by email through ad@punctuatetheatre.com.
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The Kitchen Party Tour Is Coming To You!
Looking for an opportunity to share stories, tap your feet to fiddle tunes, and dance the night away? Look no further, The Kitchen Party Tour is coming to you!
We are bringing that kitchen party energy across the province from May 19 to July 26. Come out to the location nearest you, bring your own lawn chair or picnic blanket, and enjoy an evening of music, community, youth activities, door prizes, and more!
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No registration or ticket required – EVERYONE is welcome! So, mark your calendars, bring everyone you know, and join us at The Kitchen Party Tour! You won’t want to miss this!
*Please note Tail Creek has been replaced by Rocky Mountain House.
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Let's Celebrate Our Beautiful Métis Culture
And Traditions Together!
Join us at Métis Crossing on
June 12–13, for our 8th annual Alberta Métis Fest!
Enjoy bingo, our famous jigging competition, Homeland Hour musical performances, a vibrant Métis vendor market, cultural activities, and so much more!
Plus, we’re excited to introduce a brand-new addition this year —
Battle of the Bands!
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Alberta Métis Fest is a free, family-friendly event open to everyone who wants to celebrate and learn about Métis culture!
We can't wait to see you there!
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Mamawi Pimohtetan: Continuing Our Walk Together
With renewed excitement, we invite you to join our new series of Mamawi Pimohtetan—"walking together” in Cree—a program designed to empower men with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to heal, build healthy relationships, and move forward with purpose.
Mondays, April 27 – July 27
from 7 p.m.–9 p.m.
Zoom (online)
No Sessions: May 18, and June 29
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Jumpstart Your Future In The Green Economy At The Green Economy Gatherings!
Don’t miss your chance to register for one of our upcoming Green Economy Gatherings.
You’ll get to connect with professionals and community mentors who can support you with career advice, training opportunities, and networking.
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Sustainability Tip: Recycle Your Tech The Right Way!
Spring is here, which means that it’s time for spring cleaning! Old phones, laptops, and chargers may be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind.
Recycling electronics is an easy way to reduce waste and prevent harmful substances from ending up in landfills. By bringing in your old tech, you’re also supporting efforts to reclaim valuable materials such as metals and plastics.
You can drop off your old electronics and other materials at a local depot that accepts them. Remember to wipe any personal data from your devices first. To locate a depot near you, visit the Alberta Recycling Management Authority’s depot finder in the link below.
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Pathways To Healthy Living | | | |
Did You Know There Is A Growing Community Of People Walking The Path Of Recovery Together?
Connections in Recovery is a welcoming space for individuals, friends, family members, anyone affected by substance use, to come together, connect, share stories, and build supportive relationships.
Tuesdays | 6:30 p.m.–8 p.m.
In person at the
Métis Veteran’s Building
(#200 12308 – 111 Avenue)
or online via Zoom
No registration is required
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We are excited to share that we have partnered with the Mêtawêtan Team to offer Métis‑specific activities for children of parents and caregivers in recovery who attend Connections in Recovery in person. This will create an opportunity for Métis children to learn about the rich history, creativity, and vibrant culture of the Métis Nation.
For more information or to access additional support, please contact: substanceuserecovery@metis.org or visit our website.
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Ready To Cut Back Or
Quit Tobacco?
Métis men (aged 18+) 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.
Sign up for the NRT Program for Men today at: tobaccoreduction@metis.org.
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Are You Living With A Serious Illness?
Palliative and end-of-life care helps ease pain, provides grief and spiritual support, and ensures your care meets your needs at home, in the community, or in a care facility.
This holistic care focuses on respect and understanding, relieves pain and symptoms, supports grief, and helps you honour care decisions while embracing
life fully.
Need help accessing palliative and end-of-life care?
Check out these resources and supports:
Learn more and access supports at AlbertaMetis.com/PEOLC or contact us at health@metis.org.
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Niwicitonan Playgroup - Registration Open
Connect with Métis caregivers, celebrate identity, and build community through culture, play, and learning.
Métis families with children aged 0–5 within 100 km are invited to our Medicine Hat morning playgroup.
June 10 | 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Breakfast provided.
Holiday Inn Express
9 Strachan Bay SE
Medicine Hat, AB
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Eligibility:
- Children aged 0–5
- Child or caregiver is Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen
- Live in Alberta within 100 km
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Gear Up For School Program — Registration Open
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government Children and Family Services is excited to launch this year's Gear Up for School Program, supporting Métis families as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
This program helps Métis children head into the school year prepared and ready to learn, with resources and supports tailored for preschool through Grade 6.
Get your family ready for the new school year!
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Eligibility:
- Fully registered Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government
- Reside in Alberta
- Entering preschool, kindergarten, or Grades 1–6 in Fall 2026
Apply now — supplies are limited!
Together, we’re helping Métis children start the school year strong.
Questions? Contact: CFSEarlyYears@metis.org
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Growing Together:
Métis Approaches To Early Learning And Child Care
Get ready for something special!
Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Children and Family Services presents the first annual Growing Together: Métis Approaches to Early Learning and Child Care Gathering.
July 3–5
Edmonton Convention Centre
This hands-on conference for Alberta Early Childhood Educators features Métis-informed programming, insights, activities, and our new Métis Early Learning Framework.
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What you'll gain:
• Build belonging, pride, and Métis cultural understanding.
• Create inclusive Métis-inspired spaces.
• Take-home resources, templates, and activities.
• Open to all ECEs (Métis and non-Métis).
Questions? Please email metawetan@metis.org.
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Coming Soon: Spring Métis Art Walk And Market
Join us for the Spring Métis Art Walk & Market! 🌸 🌿🎨 Experience a vibrant celebration of Métis arts and culture.
Browse unique handcrafted goods, connect with talented Alberta Métis artists, and celebrate the spirit of connection and creativity that blossoms each spring.
May 9
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
HyperPOP Space
2nd level near Marshall
Kingsway Mall
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Deadline Extended!
Get Your Chance To Perform At Alberta Métis Fest And Win Up To $5,000!
Application Deadline extended to Monday, May 4 at 5 p.m.!
Requirements:
- At least one band member must be a Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government
- Minimum of three performing members
- Submit an online application + music sample or video
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Summer Camp Is Calling!
Join us for an unforgettable week of:
- Cultural workshops
- Life skills
- New friends & community connections
And classic summer camp fun!
The Youth Programs & Services Department, in partnership with Rupertsland Institute's Teaching and Learning team, is excited to host the 2026 Camp Wahkômâtowin Cultural Camp from:
Sunday, August 9
to Friday, August 14
Pine Valley Resort in Tawatinaw
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Camp Wahkômâtowin is rooted in the spirit of connection, belonging, and cultural pride. Guided by the mission to connect Métis youth to their culture through meaningful land-based learning and activities, this camp creates a space where youth can explore their identity, strengthen their sense of community, and build relationships that last a lifetime.
Open to Métis youth Citizens aged 12–17!
To register head to linktr.ee/ABMetisYouth.
Please note: submitting an application form does NOT guarantee your spot.
The deadline to apply is June 1. All applicants will be provided an update for their application by June 15 at the latest.
Limited spots are available!
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Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
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Get Your Pegs Ready For The Crib Mingle!
The St. Paul-Cold Lake Métis District and the New Dawn Métis Women’s Society are joining forces to host an exciting Doubles Cribbage Tournament! Whether you’re a "29-hand" pro or just love the game, come out for a day of community, cards, and great food.
May 3
Beaver River Fish and Game Building
Bonnyville
Registration Deadline:
May 3 at 10 a.m. sharp!
Entry Fee: $25 per person
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We’ve got your cravings covered from start to finish:
- Morning: Fresh coffee and muffins to kick off the day.
- Luncheon: Hearty BBQ Beef on a bun and our signature Hamburger Soup.
- Dessert: A delicious selection of cookies and homemade pies.
Stick around for the afternoon fun! We will be hosting a Silent Auction with some fantastic items up for grabs, and 50/50 tickets will be available throughout the day.
Ready to play? Grab your partner and get down to the Fish and Game Building early to secure your spot. We can't wait to see who takes home the win!
To pre-register, contact Abigail at 780-545-7116.
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Post-Secondary Information Application Information
Applicants for the Rupertsland Institute Post-secondary Education Program Funding, mark your calendars for May 15!
Post-secondary education applications will open on May 15 and remain open for 30 days until June 15.
Please ensure your application is completed fully with the required documents and you check our website for the most up to date funding criteria.
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Celebrate Mother's Day
At Métis Crossing
Give Mom a Mother's Day she'll never forget!
May 10 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Join us for a Métis-hosted brunch celebrating the recipes, memories, and mothers who shaped us, featuring live music by Métis singer Mary Stinchcombe.
Weekend packages also available!
| | Adults $59 | Seniors & Youth $47 | Kids under 5 free | | | |
Traditional Métis Plant Harvesting Protocols Workshop
April 26
10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Join a Métis Knowledge Holder and Traditional Teacher for an introduction to important plants in the Métis culture. In this workshop, we will explore respectful and seasonal harvesting practices, protocols for working with plants, methods for handling and storing them, and their traditional uses.
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