| |
|
June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to reflect on the stories, traditions, and resilience that have carried Métis culture forward for generations.
That spirit is what inspired our Kitchen Party Tour this summer. Across Alberta, we are bringing Citizens together to celebrate Métis music, dancing, storytelling, and community - traditions that helped preserve our identity and connect generations of Métis families.
Kitchen parties have long been a part of Métis culture. Around kitchen tables, in community halls, and at gatherings large and small, our people shared stories, played fiddle music, danced, and carried our culture forward even during times when many were made to feel they had to hide who they were.
As we visit communities like St. Paul des Métis, we are also recognizing and honouring the deep Métis history that helped shape Alberta. These gatherings remind us that our culture is alive in our people, our youth, and our communities today.
I hope many of you will join us throughout the summer as we celebrate our traditions, our resilience, and the generations who carried our Nation forward before us.
President Andrea Sandmaier,
Otipemisiwak Métis Government
| | | |
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!
| | |
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*Please note Tail Creek has been replaced by Rocky Mountain House.
| |
|
Citizen Spotlight:
Tracy Bradley
Tracy Bradley (She/They) is a 2S multi-disciplinary artist, birth worker and entrepreneur. She is of Cree-Métis and European descent with membership in The Métis Nation of Alberta.
Tracy’s practice involves community building, investigation of traditional materials in contemporary styles, creating and supporting opportunities for learning, and sharing of traditional skills.
She has been taught by relatives such as her mother Janice Simpson, the late Roxanne Tootoosis, Ekti Margaret Cardinal, Noella Steinhauer, and many others. She works primarily in textiles, hide, beads, sculpted wool, natural stones, fur, birch bark, acrylic, water colour, ink, and oils.
Tracy has been a birth worker and aunty-mentor with Kihew Awasis Wakamik Society since its beginnings. Tracy is a member of the IAM – Indigenous Artists Market Collective.
They are the owner of Grow Centre, Nikawiy Beads, and The QUILTBAG, all Indigenous and 2SLGBTQ+ community spaces operating on Whyte Avenue since 2010.
Tracy was born and raised in Edmonton, and her Scottish Métis family roots connect to Turtle Mountain, St. Paul de Métis, and Red River Settlements.
| | | | | | |
| |
Citizens' Council Meeting Livestream Update
Did you know that we are livestreaming our monthly Citizens’ Council meetings? The livestreams are now streaming on our new YouTube channel, @OtipemisiwakCouncilMeetings.
We’d love to have you join us as we build the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
For more information about our Citizens’ Council, please visit: AlbertaMetis.com/governance/citizens-council/.
| |
Congratulations to Our Métis Graduates!
From Secretary Of Education, Training & Veterans Affairs Lisa Wolfe
Taansii,
This is an exciting time for students and families as graduation ceremonies take place in communities across Alberta. I am very proud to recognize the accomplishments of Métis students who are reaching this important milestone and preparing for the next chapter of their journeys.
| | | |
Graduation represents the hard work, resilience, and determination of our students. Our graduates should be proud not only of what they have accomplished in the classroom, but also of the strength they carry as Métis people.
You can read her full message of congratulations and encouragement to Métis Graduates in the link below.
| |
Celebrate Alberta Métis Fest
June 12 – 13
Metis Crossing
Smoky Lake, Alberta
| | | |
Alberta Métis Fest Is Back!
Join us at Métis Crossing on June 12 – 13 for an unforgettable weekend of music, dance, and culture!
Homeland Hour with special guest Donny Parenteau.
Alberta Music Showcase featuring:
Métis Child & Family Dancers with Darla Daniels, Grime N’ Punishment, Fox Pickard, Robin Cisek, Aaron Whitford, Cory Poitras, Cynthia Hamar, Brettyn Rose, Jaiden Riley, Kyran Reid, Erin Berland, Brody Jerome, and Dean Olson!
| | |
NEW this year is our Battle of the Bands featuring:
Boneyard, Mischievous Ones, Popular Demand, Soul Smash, and Sweet Disasters!
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! For more information, click the link below!
| | | |
Get Ready For Homeland Hour At Métis Crossing On June 13th, Featuring Special Guest Donny Parenteau!
Born in Prince Albert, SK, Donny is a proud Métis artist, multi-instrumentalist, and 3x Juno nominee who’s toured the world and topped the Indigenous Music Countdown.
| | | |
Mamawi Pimohtetan:
A Program Designed To Empower Men
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
| | | |
An Archival Project For Our Métis Survivors
With the guidance of Survivors, family members, and the community, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government is launching an archival project to document the stories of Métis residential school Survivors.
This project seeks to create a space for Métis stories to be heard, remembered, and respected. This archival project will create a resource for people to access and learn from our community members.
| | |
If you're comfortable, please fill out this form so our team can connect with you to continue the conversation.
All registration details will remain confidential.
| | | | |
| |
| |
Don’t Forget To Register For An Upcoming Green Economy Gathering!
You’ll get to connect with professionals and community mentors who can support you with career advice, training opportunities, and networking.
June 6 – Calgary
June 7 – Medicine Hat
June 20 – Grande Prairie
Drop by at any point during the event or complete the optional registration form.
| | | |
The Community Bird Walks Are Soaring Back To Métis Fest!
Head to Métis Crossing on June 13 to join the Environment and Climate Change (ECC) team for a beginner-friendly, drop-in Bird Walk during Métis Fest.
You’ll learn how to listen for and spot birds in their environment, gain a deeper understanding of the birds around us, and discover what they can teach us.
We look forward to seeing you there!
| | |
ECC staff will host a morning walk from 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
and an afternoon walk from 1:30 p.m.–3 p.m.
Questions? Please contact the ECC team at environment@metis.org
| | | | |
Pathways To Healthy Living | | | |
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.
| | |
Participants receive a $100 honorarium, with mileage and accommodations available for travel over 50 km. Child-minding is provided. Telephone interviews (40–60 minutes) are also available with a $50 honorarium.
If you have any questions or require more information about the study, you may contact the Principal Investigator at the University of Alberta, Dr. Kaitlyn Tate, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Nursing, at ktate@ualberta.ca.
This study was approved by the Ethics Committee for Health Research, University of Alberta: Rooted in Home: Survey development and exploration of Métis perspectives on the care needs of older adults when aging in their communities. (Ethics ID: Pro00151054)
| | | |
District 11 Dental Clinic
Join us for the Métis District 11 Redwater Free Dental Clinic and Community Gathering!
This event is about bringing our community together, improving health, and enjoying quality time with friends. Come for an appointment – Stay for community!
July 6 – 9
8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Pembina Place, 4944 53 St
Redwater, AB
| | |
Note: Appointment spaces are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority will be given to individuals experiencing distressing symptoms and dental emergencies.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at
Dental@Metis.org or 780-455-2200 ext. 244.
| | | | |
| |
| |
Nourishing Families - Registration Opens June 15!
Healthy food, less stress, and no cost to families. In partnership with Goodfood, the School Food Program is launching Nourishing Families on June 15!
When your school nights get busy, cooking from scratch can feel impossible. These easy-to-prepare meal kits include simple recipes and pre-portioned ingredients, so children can enjoy balanced meals at home or at school.
| | |
The eligibility criteria for this program is as follows:
- Parents and caregivers on behalf of at least one child who is an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen and who is enrolled in Pre-K to Grade 12 Education.
- Children must be between the ages of 4-18.
-
Youth over 16 can apply on their own if they live independently, are enrolled in High School, and must be Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens.
- Applicants must reside in Alberta.
Save your appetite, follow our social media, and apply on June 15!
Questions? Please contact schoolfoodprogram@metis.org or 780-455-2200.
| | | |
Learn Moss Bag Teachings With The Niwicitonan Playgroup!
Join us and Susan Sinclair, a Michif language and Traditional Knowledge Keeper. Through the power of storytelling, we’ll learn the importance of the moss bag teachings. These teachings exist to create love and safety between children and their caregivers. Participants will receive materials to complete their own moss bags at home.
Connect with other Métis caregivers, celebrate identity, and build community through culture, play, and learning.
| | |
Métis families with children aged 0–5 who live within Alberta
are invited to join us online.
Wednesday, June 24
9 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Online via Zoom invite
Register before June 17 to get your child connected to culture and community from the very start!
| | | |
Early Learning Educators, Get Ready For Something Special!
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 exclusive conference offers free registration, and hands-on learning for Alberta Educators that will transform classrooms into Métis-informed programs with cultural, insights, activities, and our new Métis Early Learning Framework.
| | |
Open to all ECEs and Educators in Early Learning Environments
(Pre-K, Kindergarten and Grade 1, Métis and non-Métis).
Register for free today to bring Métis culture to life!
Questions? Please email metawetan@metis.org.
| | | | |
| |
Energy Efficiency Retrofits Program Reopening June 1
The Energy Efficiency Retrofits Program will reopen on June 1. Offered by Métis Capital Housing Corporation in collaboration with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Environment and Climate Change Department and Enerva Energy Solutions Inc., the program provides financial support to eligible Métis homeowners for approved energy-efficient home upgrades.
Eligible retrofits are based on the results of a pre-retrofit EnerGuide home evaluation and may include insulation upgrades, energy-efficient windows, heating and cooling systems, improvements and solar panels.
| | Applicants are encouraged to review the program details and prepare the required documents in advance. | | | |
Home Repair Assistance Program Reopening June 29
The Home Repair Assistance Program will reopen on June 29. This program provides financial assistance to eligible Métis homeowners to help with essential repairs that support safe, healthy and comfortable living conditions.
Eligible repairs may include plumbing and electrical work, roofing, siding, windows and doors, furnace and hot water tank repairs or replacements, insulation and drywall repair, mould remediation, mobility-accessible adaptations and other approved repairs.
| | Applicants are encouraged to review the program webpage and prepare their required documents before applications open. | | | |
Stop By Before The St.Paul Des Métis Kitchen Party For A Hands-on Wolf Willow Workshop!
Learn tips on how to harvest wolf willow seeds while you create some beautiful jewelry with the Youth Department!
May 31
3 p.m.–5 p.m.
St. Paul Library, 4802 53 St
St. Paul, AB
This is a free DROP-IN workshop for Métis Youth aged 12-29!
| | | | |
| |
Otipemisiwak Métis Alumni Event At The Alberta Art Gallery
Have you been funded by Rupertsland Institute or the Métis Scholar Award and graduated from post-secondary?
Join us at our Edmonton Alumni Event.
June 18
Art Gallery of Alberta
This evening will encourage building meaningful relationships among fellow Métis alumni, strengthening professional networks, and creating space to connect with community. Guests will have the opportunity to meet representatives from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, Rupertsland Institute, and the Métis Education Foundation.
| | |
The Otipemisiwak Métis Alumni Association will have a gallery hand selected by our team from the Art Gallery of Alberta’s collection to adorn the evening and create a unique and memorable setting for connection, reflection, and celebration.
We look forward to celebrating your accomplishments and welcoming you to an evening of connection, community, and celebration.
| | | |
Trades Alumni Event
The Otipemisiwak Métis Alumni Association is excited to invite all Trades Alumni and their employers to join us for a special Alumni Mixer.
June 17
Voyageur Trades Program Facility
#101 - 17940 - 106A Avenue
Edmonton
This evening will encourage building meaningful relationships among fellow Métis Trades alumni, strengthening professional networks, and creating space to connect with community. Guests will have the opportunity to meet representatives from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, Rupertsland Institute, and the Métis Education Foundation.
| | Join us for an evening of connection, conversation, and community. | | Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | Picture of Citizens' Council taken June 12, 2025 | |
St. Albert, St. Paul Des Métis, And Conklin –
We’re Coming To You!
Bring your family and friends and enjoy an evening of music, community, youth activities, door prizes, and more! Make sure to bring your own lawn chair or picnic blanket.
No registration or ticket required – EVERYONE is welcome! We can’t wait to see you!
| | | | |
Fort McMurray Métis Fest
If you’ve been looking for a reason to visit Fort McMurray Métis District 17, this is it.
Métis Fest
Saturday, June 27 &
Sunday, June 28
MacDonald Island, Fort McMurray
Future home of the McMurray Métis Cultural Centre
Free. Family-friendly. Full of authentic Métis culture, music, dancing, shopping & unforgettable moments!
| |
We Are So Proud To Share Highlights From Our Third Annual Celebration Of Achievement!
This year, we honoured 18 McMurray Métis Citizens who reached major milestones, including graduation from Kindergarten, Grade 6, High School, College, and University.
To each graduate, congratulations! Your hard work, determination, and growth deserve to be celebrated. We thank the families, teachers, and supporters who walked alongside them every step of the way.
Please join us in congratulating our graduates!
| | | | |
| |
| |
| |
