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This weekend, we honour Louis Riel. A leader whose dream of a self-governing Métis Nation lives on in each of us. Over a century after his death, that vision is thriving in our communities, our culture, and our Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
Métis Week begins Saturday with the Louis Riel Walk, followed by Sunday’s Commemorative Ceremony at the Alberta Legislature, marking the official start of the week. To stand in that space, recognized as a government in our own right, shows how far we’ve come as Otipemisiwak, the people who govern themselves.
Throughout the week, communities will host events and flag raisings, including the Métis Market on Saturday, November 15. Later, the Delia Gray Gala will honour Métis students and award scholarships that invest in our next generation of leaders.
Together, we are writing the next chapter of our Nation’s story.
Andrea Sandmaier
President, Otipemisiwak Métis Government
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Early Fall Elections: The Results Are In!
The certified 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!
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Secretary Spotlight:
Barry Dibb
This month, Secretary Barry Dibb is featured in the Secretary Spotlight. As the Provincial Secretary of Rural and Economic Development, he plays a critical role in advancing participation in major projects and supporting equity stake negotiations to ensure Métis benefit from key economic development opportunities.
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Join Us And Celebrate Métis Week
“This is a time to honour who we are as Métis people and to remember where we come from.”
Join us as we come together and celebrate Métis Week! Visit the Métis Week website to learn more about everything we have going on from November 15 to 22.
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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!
Tickets for the Delia Gray Gala will be available at the Provincial Office starting November 3. Tickets will be limited to two per person.
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Don't Miss The Kisîhtoskâtonaw Métis Market Today!
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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Get Into The Festive Spirit At A Métis Christmas Family Dance!
On December 12, join us at Polish Hall (10960 104 St., Edmonton) for an evening of music, dance, food, youth activities, and community as we come together to celebrate the holiday season. Enjoy live music by Donny L’Hirondelle and Rockin’ Fiddle with special guest appearances by the Kikino Northern Lites and Darla Daniels!
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We’re Reminiscing On Métis Games 2025 — How About You?
Want to join in on the fun? Registration for next year’s Métis Games, taking place from May 15 to May 17, 2026 in Calgary is still open! Spots are still available for Citizens born in the following years:
Registration closes on November 30, so sign up now! Your registration includes complimentary food and hotels for non-local participants.
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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 that you are eligible to vote in is based on your physical address, not your 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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Foundational Knowledge In Traditional Métis Soap-Making
Join us for a hands-on virtual workshop celebrating Métis homesteading traditions through the art of soap-making.
Sunday, December 7
9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Location: Virtual (Zoom)
This event is open to participants of all ages; however, children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Priority will be given to individuals who have not participated before.
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Every participant will receive a pre-packaged supply kit mailed directly to their home.
For questions or assistance, contact Gina Levasseur, Community Wellness Coordinator, at glevasseur@metis.org.
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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.
Virtual and open to all Indigenous peoples
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Celebrate The Season With Us At The Métis Family Christmas Party
Get ready to celebrate the holiday season with two chances to join the fun!
The Métis Family Christmas Party will be held on Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7 at the beautiful Métis Crossing. Bring the whole family and choose the date that works best for you.
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Enjoy a special visit from Métis Santa, winter activities like tobogganing, snowshoeing, cookie decorating for the little bakers, lively performances by talented Métis musicians, and creative crafts to take home.
Come for the festive spirit, stay for the memories. We can’t wait to celebrate with you on either day!
Families with children aged 0 to 11 are encouraged to register!
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Festive Family Support Package
The holidays are all about coming together, and we’re here to help make this season a little brighter for Métis families across Alberta.
Applications are now open for the Festive Family Support Package through the Children and Family Services Department.
Each package includes a $200 Walmart gift card, a family resource guide, and creative, no-cost ways to make this season meaningful through connection, joy, and community.
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Eligibility:
- Children must be registered Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens
- Must be between the ages of 0 and 11
- Must reside in Alberta
Let’s make this holiday season one to remember, full of warmth, support, and the Métis spirit.
Apply today through the link below, quantities limited.
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ABHuntLog: Prizes
Have you downloaded the iHunter app and used the ABHuntLog feature?
Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens who use ABHuntLog can also win prizes!
Use the “Métis Harvester” participant type to be entered into a draw for one of five $100 Cabela’s gift cards! Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens only need an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizenship number to win.
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Evacuation Survey
Our Environment and Climate Change team is running an Evacuation Survey to identify ways to better assist Citizens during emergencies.
If you’ve ever had to evacuate, please consider completing the survey. It’s confidential, and participants will be entered into a giveaway for one of 15 $100 gift cards.
Questions? Contact environment@metis.org.
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Hunters' Role In Monitoring CWD In Alberta
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a serious neurological disease that affects members of the deer family. If you are a Métis harvester, we encourage you to submit deer heads for CWD testing to participate in the Government of Alberta’s CWD Surveillance Program. To learn more, check Alberta’s Chronic Wasting Disease – Information for Hunters website.
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Youth Centre Open House
Celebrate Métis Week with creativity, culture, and connection!
Stop by for tea and snacks while you browse our info market or relax with cultural crafts.
Thursday, November 20
11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Youth Building
11821 123 Street NW, Edmonton
Don’t forget to VOTE in the Métis Youth Art Contest!
Have questions? Email us at youth@metis.org.
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Learn Michif With Dan The Michif Man!
Join us with Dan Cardinal for a series of lessons to start your journey into learning Northern Michif.
Lessons LIVE on Zoom every other Tuesday starting September 26
from 5 p.m.–7 p.m.. Everyone is welcome to tune in and pick up some Michif teachings!
Upcoming classes:
November 18
December 2
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Did You Know?
There are participation incentives for Métis Youth Citizens aged 12 to 29! Work towards a prize by completing the corresponding worksheet for each biweekly video.
Register online so you never miss a lesson! To register and to access the Zoom link, head to linktr.ee/ABMetisYouth
Contact Rylee at rsargeant@metis.org for more information.
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Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
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Experience The Magic Of The Season At The Métis Crossing Holiday Market
Embrace the spirit of the holidays at Métis Crossing’s annual Holiday Market — a joyful, free community event that brings together warmth, culture, and creativity. Stroll through the Cultural Gathering Centre, where Indigenous artisans and local vendors showcase handcrafted treasures, festive décor, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Whether you’re finding the perfect present, connecting with local makers, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the Holiday Market is a celebration of Métis hospitality and the joy of the season.
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Saturday, November 29
11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Cultural Centre, Métis Crossing
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Craft With Purpose: Métis Ribbon Skirt And Ribbon Shirt Workshop
Celebrate Métis artistry and tradition in this immersive two-day workshop led by Elder Lilyrose Meyers. Learn the intricate techniques behind ribbon work, appliqué, and sewing, and uncover the deep cultural meanings and stories that inspire each creation.
Participants are invited to bring their own sewing machine and design a ribbon skirt or shirt that reflects their heritage, creativity, and pride — a beautiful expression of Métis identity through craft.
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December 13–14
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
All supplies, snacks, and coffee provided.
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Traditional Métis Slippers And Mittens Workshop
Embrace the season with creativity and culture at this hands-on winter workshop! Guided by an Elder, you’ll learn the timeless art of Métis craftsmanship as you create your own pair of slippers or mittens, beautifully decorated with beading, embroidery, and ribbons.
Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with coffee, tea, and snacks as you connect with Métis traditions that have kept families warm and inspired for generations.
$45 per participant – All materials included.
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Saturday, December 20
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
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Winter Closure Dates
Wintering is a time to slow down, gather close, and reconnect—with land, language, and loved ones. In Métis tradition, it’s a season of stories, rest, and renewal.
As we shift into the winter season, please note the following closure dates:
- November 10–20, 2025
- December 24–28, 2025
- January 8–15, 2026
We appreciate your understanding and encourage planning visits outside of these closure periods to enjoy all experiences available fully.
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Get Ready For Métis Week With Rupertsland Institute
Join us for a week of culture, connection, and community.
Come visit with the OMSA and RLI at the Métis Youth Open House and Métis Housing's Stew and Bannock on Thursday and Friday, respectively.
Rupertsland Teaching and Learning has a new virtual resource for each week day, sign up to receive the links.
Let's make this Métis Week memorable!
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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 increase 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.
Applications close on January 5, 2026 11:59 p.m. (ET). Apply now!
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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 the outcome of your application.
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