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As harvest ends and winter settles in, I’m reminded of the strength that has always carried our people forward from hard work, to caring for one another, and never forgetting where we come from.
November is a time of remembrance. On November 8, we honour Indigenous Veterans Day, and on November 11, Remembrance Day. We remember those who served a country that did not always serve them in return.
Among them was Henry Louis Norwest, a Métis sharpshooter from Fort Saskatchewan, one of Canada’s most legendary snipers of the First World War. He gave his life for a nation that barely knew his name, but we remember him, and those like him, with pride.
As Métis Week and Louis Riel Day approach, we honour all who stood for our rights and our future. Their courage lives on in every Citizen who continues to build this Nation.
Marsii,
Andrea Sandmaier President,
Otipemisiwak Métis Government
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Early Fall Elections: The Results Are In!
The preliminary results are in for the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s 2025 Early Fall Elections.
Congratulations to our newly elected representatives in Lac Ste.Anne, Fort McMurray, and Lesser Slave Lake Métis Districts, as well as all our acclaimed candidates!
Certified results will be announced within 10 days.
Thank you to everyone who put their name forward and to all the Citizens who cast their ballot.
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Now Hiring: Chief Electoral Office
We’re looking for a Chief Electoral Officer experienced in leadership, recruiting, training, and supervising.
The Chief Electoral Officer is an arms-length officer of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government who oversees the independent Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Elections, and Referenda of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government in accordance with the Elections and Referenda Act (“the Act”), the Constitution of the Métis Nation within Alberta, and other relevant Otipemisiwak Métis Government laws.
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Upcoming Office Closure Dates
Please note our upcoming office closures on the dates below.
Remembrance Day
Nov. 11, 2025
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Citizen Spotlight: Lieutenant (Navy) Keith Diakiw
Currently serving as the Northern Environmental Coordinator for the 3rd Canadian Division Support Group, Lt. (N) Keith Diakiw’s career spans both naval and land-based operations. His focus on environmental leadership in Canada’s northern regions and his role as a Naval Warfare Officer Reservist at HMCS Nonsuch has shown his dedication, leadership, and commitment to the environment.
Lt.(N) Keith Diakiw served as an Environmental Officer for the Ex Arctic Bison 25 where he fostered respectful relationships with Haa Shagóon Hídi, the Carcross/Tagish and Tlingit First Nations, contributing to cultural engagement and reconciliation efforts.
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Get Ready For Métis Week!
Métis Week is an opportunity for our community to celebrate, showcase, and honour our history, culture, and progress as a people. From November 15 to 22, join the Otipemisiwak Métis Government in commemorating Métis Week at each of our featured events!
For the Delia Gray Gala, tickets will be limited and available at the Provincial Office starting November 3. Tickets will be limited to two per person.
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Kisîhtoskâtonaw Métis Art Collective Invites You To The 2025 Fall Métis Market!
Join us for a vibrant celebration of Métis culture, creativity, and community. Explore handcrafted goods, meet talented Métis artists, and experience the warmth of fall through art, tradition, and visiting.
This is more than a market, it’s a celebration of identity, resilience, and connection.
Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or soaking in the cozy vibes, this market is the perfect way to support local Alberta Métis artists and be part of the vibrant spirit of this year’s Métis Week.
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Métis Games Is Now Open!
Youth born between 2008 and 2018 who are Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens have the opportunity to participate in various sports from May 15 to 17, 2026, in Calgary, including:
- Volleyball
- Dodgeball
- Pickleball
- Races, team games, individual competitions
- And much more!
Don’t miss out on this opportunity for community, culture, and some friendly competition!
| | Registration includes complimentary food and hotels for non-local participants. Entry into the games is open exclusively to Otipemisiwak Métis Citizens, and spots are limited. | | | |
Event Photo Collection
Looking for photos from our recent events? Create a free Flickr account to access, browse, and add to our photo galleries.
View the public galleries below and relive the memorable moments!
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Contact Information Portal
Confirm your contact information with our Contact Information Portal to ensure you are eligible to vote in District Elections!
Please note, you must be a resident of your Métis District for 90 days to be eligible to vote in District elections. The District where you are eligible to vote in is based on your physical address, not mailing address.
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Pathways To Healthy Living | | | |
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) Program For Men
Métis men are resilient and strong. Join the NRT Program for Men to gain support and tools to quit smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco.
Open to Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens aged 18 and above, the program runs online on November 25, 27, and December 2
7 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Complete the program and receive a $500 Alberta Blue Cross benefits card for nicotine replacement therapies.
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Are You Navigating Cancer? You Are Not Alone.
Join Wellspring Alberta’s Indigenous Cancer Sharing Circle.
Navigating cancer can be challenging, but support is available. Wellspring Alberta’s Indigenous Cancer Sharing Circle provides a safe and welcoming space for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis adults living in Alberta.
Whether you have been impacted by cancer yourself or through supporting a loved one, this monthly virtual gathering is co-led by an Elder or Knowledge Keeper and a Wellspring program leader, and ensures no one has to face cancer alone.
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First Monday of every month
2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. MST.
Virtual and open to all Indigenous peoples
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Navigating Life’s Stresses Can Be Difficult —
We're Here To Help
We have partnered with Alberta Blue Cross and Homewood Health to create the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Wellness Program.
Counsellors can help in the following areas:
- Improving personal well-being
- Managing family and relationships
- Addressing workplace challenges
- Taking financial and legal control of life
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Share Your Knowledge!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is gathering information about Métis traplines and trapping practices in Alberta. Your responses will help support and preserve this important tradition.
If you are a Métis trapper or a junior partner, or if you know of a generational trapline in your family, we invite you to complete the following survey.
All participants will be entered into a draw to win one of three $150 gift cards to Canadian Tire.
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Calling All Artists!
Children and Family Services is looking to purchase beaded artwork (tuppies, octopus bags, etc.) from talented Métis Citizens.
We’ll be showcasing it at our Métis Cultural Awareness training sessions across the province. If you create these stunning pieces or know someone who does, please reach out!
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Flourishing Futures
This program is designed to support Métis Early Learners aged 0–11 across Alberta by covering the cost of services and supports that will address common developmental, social, and emotional barriers to learning.
Ready to apply, or want to learn more about the program?
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FASD Resources Kit Registration Open Now
The Children and Family Services’ FASD Bridging Connections Program is bringing you a special FASD mailout full of resources and activities rooted in Métis culture, values, and traditions.
Sign up to receive your first package in October, including:
- Easy-to-use tip sheets
- Métis cultural teachings and activities
- Practical tools to support loved ones with FASD
- Thoughtful gifts to remind you to care for yourself
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Our FASD Team is committed to building compassion, understanding, and wellness in our communities, one step at a time.
Sign up now and join us on this journey the Métis way.
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Conservation Land Access Dashboard
Experience all that fall has to offer at any of the 1,000 conservation sites listed on our Conservation Land Access Dashboard (CLAD)!
Note: CLAD summarizes each site and is not the primary source of information. Please confirm acceptable activities with the sites’ managing organizations ahead of time.
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Askîy Youth Guardian Program
Métis youth aged 18–29, apply now for the February 2026 intake of the Askîy Youth Guardian Program!
From February 16 to 21, successful applicants will learn ice fishing and traditional Métis fishing techniques from experienced harvesters and the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Environment Team.
Apply before 11:59 p.m. on
December 15, 2025.
For more information, please reach out to environment@metis.org.
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ABHuntLog: Input And Impact
Bring ABHuntLog with you the next time you go hunting or scouting! It’s the perfect tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to track trips and share observations.
By participating in wildlife population monitoring, you are also building awareness about the role of hunting and harvesting in the Métis economy.
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Métis Week Youth Art Contest!
Draw, paint, or sketch what Métis self-government means to you!
Celebrate the historic and contemporary accomplishments of Métis people through your creativity.
WIN a $100 VISA Gift Card and have your artwork featured on a STICKER!
Métis Youth Citizens aged 3–29 are invited to enter!
Entry Deadline: November 16, 2025
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MIYOOAYAAN Métis Mixer
We are inviting everyone to attend our Métis Mixer, sponsored by OMSA and Rupertsland Institute!
Celebrate our youth and get to know our staff while enjoying live music featuring Kinley Paul and friends, explore our Artist Market, and take some free photos with Hip Image!
November 7, 2025
7 p.m.–10 p.m.
DoubleTree by Hilton in Calgary
Live music, dancing, and artist market are open to everyone to attend!
| | The MIYOOAYAAN Wellness Summit provides a safe space for all Métis youth aged 12–29 to gather, build connections, participate in cultural workshops, and hear from inspirational keynote speakers and panelists. | | | | |
Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
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Traditional Métis Christmas Ornament Workshop
Get into the holiday spirit with Métis Elder Lilyrose Meyers at Métis Crossing’s Traditional Métis Christmas Ornament Workshop. Using traditional materials and techniques, you’ll craft your own beautiful ornament while learning about the stories and artistry that make Métis culture so unique.
This hands-on experience is perfect for anyone who loves creativity, culture, and community. All supplies, snacks, and warm conversation are included!
| | Join us on November 9, 2025, and take home a handmade ornament filled with meaning and Métis spirit. | | | |
Reconnect With Tradition At The Métis Traditional Skills Workshop
Discover the artistry and cultural significance behind traditional Métis ribbon skirts and shirts in this hands-on, two-day workshop guided by Elder Lilyrose Meyers. Participants will learn sewing techniques, ribbon work, and appliqué while exploring the stories and symbolism woven into every design.
Bring your own sewing machine and create a piece that reflects your creativity, heritage, and pride.
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December 13–14, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
All supplies, snacks, and coffee included.
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Traditional Métis Slippers And Mittens Workshop
Stay cozy this winter while learning the art of Métis craftsmanship! In this hands-on workshop, guided by an Elder, you’ll craft your own pair of slippers or mittens — complete with traditional Métis adornments like beading, embroidery, and ribbons.
Enjoy coffee, tea, and snacks as you explore the techniques and traditions that have kept Métis families warm for generations.
December 20, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
$45 per participant – All materials included.
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Are You An Employer Looking For Métis Apprentices?
Rupertsland Institute is continuing to expand Métis participation in trades!
The brand new Employer Apprenticeship Incentive aims to increase the number of contracted Métis apprentices in the trades.
This program seeks to mitigate the costs associated with hiring, training, or retaining apprentices and increasing Métis participation up to their Red Seal designation.
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Gear Up For A Shad Summer With RLI
Grade 10 and 11 students can apply for Shad Canada and spend a month on a university campus with hands-on courses on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics), and entrepreneurship content with ongoing mentor access.
Shad is a transformative program for developing leadership, nurturing innovation, and connecting you with peers from across Canada.
Apply now! Early applications close November 3!
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How to Apply:
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Head to bit.ly/Shad-Rupertsland
- Follow the steps to create an account
- Once you’re in, fill out the application and be sure to click on Rupertsland Institute in the scholarship section
- Wait to hear about your acceptance and get ready for Shad2025
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