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This past week, we celebrated Métis Week, honouring our history, culture, and contributions to Canada.
It was a time of joy and pride as we reflected on the legacy of Louis Riel.
He was a visionary leader and champion for justice who believed in a Canada where all communities have a voice.
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As we mark the anniversary of Louis Riel’s wrongful execution, we remember his sacrifice and celebrate the progress we’ve made as the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
While there is more to achieve, Riel’s dream of justice and self-determination inspires us to build a stronger future together as a proud and resilient Nation.
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The Métis flag flew proudly this past week as the City of Calgary issued a proclamation declaring Métis Week from November 10 to 16.
Dozens came out to raise the Métis flag at the Calgary municipal plaza, alongside our Otipemisiwak Métis Government elected officials and Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek.
Inside Calgary city hall, the Calgary Métis Cultural Dancers and the Foothill Jiggers performed several dances alongside local Métis musicians.
It was a great opportunity to strengthen relationships between our government and the City of Calgary, while sharing our beautiful Métis culture and history.
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Notice: Impact Of Canada Post Strike On Otipemisiwak Métis Government Programs
On November 15, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers announced that its members have gone on strike, disrupting operations at Canada Post.
Several programs administered by the Otipemisiwak Métis Government depend on Canada Post services, and as a result, there may be delays or disruptions to these programs.
If you are participating in any programs offered by the Otipemisiwak Métis Government and have urgent concerns or questions, please contact your program representative. We appreciate your understanding during this time.
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Lisa Wolfe, Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Provincial Secretary of Education, Training, Language, and Veterans Affairs, is a proud Métis woman with deep roots in the historic Lac La Biche community. Married to her husband Ike for 29 years, Lisa is a mother of four and kookum to two grandkids. Her family heritage traces back to the Cardinals on her mother's side and the Ladouceurs on her father's.
Raised in Lac La Biche, Lisa grew up immersed in Métis culture—learning hunting, beading, hide work, and sewing from her mother, Yvonne. Later, she moved to Edmonton, where she learned leadership skills through the Air Cadet Program and built a career serving her community, retiring as an Edmonton Police Service (EPS) Officer and a Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Throughout her career, Lisa has dedicated herself to enhancing opportunities for Métis youth. She has served as the Aboriginal recruitment officer for the EPS, an advisor to Edmonton’s End Poverty Commission, and a role model for Métis students in schools and universities. She inspires youth by sharing the legacy of Métis figures like Sgt. Alex Decoteau, and through her involvement in scholarships like the Indspire and BBMA Awards.
Lisa received a Duke of Edinburgh Award for leadership, and a National Esquao Award for leadership and commitment and service to her Indigenous community in 2019.
Lisa has also been a steadfast advocate for Métis veterans, meeting with the Minister of Veterans Affairs to push for recognition, support, and representation at ceremonies for Métis veterans in Alberta.
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Congratulations to Kelle Hurd on being selected for Avenue Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40!
Kelle is a Physician and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine.
Kelle was recognized for her work in creating safe spaces in medicine for Indigenous patients to access culturally safe care.
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Learn about Kelle's story and her impactful contributions. | | | | |
The True Canadians Podcast | |
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The Strength Of Métis Women
During Métis Week, the Delia Gray Gala honors a distinguished Métis woman in Alberta.
Named after Delia Gray, the first Provincial Elder of the Métis Nation of Alberta, the event features dinner, live music, and scholarships in memory of Cecil Bellrose, Marlene Lanz, and Bruce Gladue.
Host David Wylynko talks with Delia Gray's granddaughter, Métis artist Krista Leddy, whose beadwork, including a portrait of Louis Riel, has garnered national attention and sparked both praise and criticism.
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A Journey To Forgiveness
As a young child, Angie Crerar was taken from her home in the Northwest Territories and placed in a Catholic-run boarding school, where she knew the treatment was wrong.
Her story is part of Canada's painful Residential school legacy.
In a conversation with host David Wylynko, Angie shares the trauma of being separated from her family and her journey toward forgiveness.
She also reflects on the significance of meeting Pope Francis in Rome to express her feelings.
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Fall Métis Market
Check out an array of Métis-made artisanal products at the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Fall Métis Market in Edmonton at Kingsway Mall on November 23 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The market will be taking place at the HyperPOP space located on the upper level of the mall near Marshalls.
We hope to see you there!
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Citizen Water Quality Monitoring Kits!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is excited to launch new Citizen Water Quality Monitoring Kits!
These kits support our ongoing water stewardship efforts and help you learn about the health of local water bodies.
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Each kit includes monitoring tools and a brochure with a QR code for instructional video access.
Kits are limited and will be available from the Provincial Office from November 18 – 22, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
After using your kit, send a photo to ashaw@metis.org by December 9 for a chance to win a family-oriented Water Quality Monitoring gift basket filled with science-themed goodies!
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National Urban Parks Program
Our Consultation Department is seeking input on how National Urban Parks (NUPs) can best serve our Métis Citizens.
The NUP program is the proposed implementation of a series of national parks located in urban areas across Canada, including Edmonton.
These parks will be shaped through the lens of local contexts to promote community leadership.
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We are specifically looking into three smaller projects within the Edmonton NUP: community gardens, Métis-led Guardians, and educational signage.
We aim to use the survey results to determine how a NUP can best benefit Métis Citizens.
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Indigenous Habitat Protection Program Survey
Fill out the survey and let your voice be heard.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government, in collaboration with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), is conducting a survey to gather insights on fish habitat restoration priorities within the Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains.
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The Indigenous Habitat Participation Program survey seeks to capture Métis perspectives on key topics including the importance of specific fish species, essential ecosystem functions supporting fish habitat, and site-specific opportunities for habitat restoration. | | |
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Promoting And Increasing Cultural Safety
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Consultation Department seeks input from women, youth (aged 16 – 29), and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Citizens!
Join our monthly engagements to share your thoughts as we travel across the province.
Participants are eligible for an honorarium. Register today—spots are limited!
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Women
November 23
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Youth
November 23
2:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
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2SLGBTQQIA+
November 24
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
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Festive Family Support Package
Application time!
Our Children and Family Services Festive Family Support Package application is now open, while supplies last!
This package provides Métis families with a resource booklet, a $200 Walmart gift card, and ideas for a season of love, connection, and community.
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Eligibility:
- Reside in Alberta
- Have children aged 0 –11
- Have at least one child aged 0 – 11 registered as a Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government
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Flourishing Futures Accessibility Grant For Métis Early Learners
Are you a Caregiver of a Métis Early Learner seeking supports and services to help overcome learning barriers?
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.
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Introducing the FASD Bridging Futures Program
We offer collaborative goal setting and strength-based assessments, along with resources, connections, and referrals to assist with transitions to adult services.
Additionally, we provide support for Otipemisiwak Métis Government citizenship and opportunities for cultural involvement and community connection.
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Rooted in Métis culture and values, this program supports Métis youth with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in their transition to adulthood.
Eligibility:
- Métis youth (aged 15 – 25) in Alberta, with or without an FASD diagnosis
- Willingness to actively participate with caregiver consent if needed
Self-referrals are welcome!
Download the intake form and email it to fasd@metis.org.
Let us help your family explore diagnosis options, access specialists, and build a healthy future.
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Pathways To Healthy Living | |
Don’t Wait - Get Screened Today! | |
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A mammogram can help identify abnormal cells early, making cancer more treatable and improving health outcomes. Women aged 45 – 74 are advised to have a mammogram every two years.
Discover the Otipemisiwak Métis Government's cancer resources, including travel support.
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Medical Travel Program
Travelling for medical appointments?
Our newly expanded Medical Travel Program can provide both mileage reimbursement and accommodations for Métis Citizens across the province.
If you are an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen travelling to your next medical appointment, you may be eligible!
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ChangeCore
Do you smoke, vape, or use smokeless tobacco and wish you had group support to help you reduce, quit, or maintain your quit?
ChangeCore may be the right fit for you.
ChangeCore is a non-clinical, peer-led, weekly support group for those in any stage of change.
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Every Monday
6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
ZOOM
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To join, you will need: any device with internet, camera*, and microphone.
Computers are recommended to view the group properly.
*Camera On is not mandatory but helps create a safe space.
To enroll, email khachey@metis.org your name, phone number, and preferred email address.
Learn more about our other tobacco reduction programs at:
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The Askîy Youth Monitor Submission Call-Out
The Askîy Youth Monitor Submission Call-Out is offering the opportunity for four new Askîy Youth Guardians.
The selected individuals will learn sustainable harvesting practices and scientific methods for monitoring fish health at Alberta lakes from February 16 – 22, 2025.
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Accommodations and meal expenses will be covered.
Métis youth aged 18 – 29 are invited to apply.
To apply, share a brief essay, video, or other form of expression about yourself and explain why you want to join the Askîy Youth Guardians ice-fishing team.
Apply now for a chance to be a part of this amazing experience – Deadline: December 15, 2024!
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Citizens Can Win With ABHuntLog! | |
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ABHuntLog is the perfect tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to track trips and share observations.
By logging your harvesting and wildlife notes, you’ll contribute to wildlife conservation efforts and support Métis harvesting rights.
Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens who select the “Métis Harvester” participant type will be entered into a draw to win one of five $100 Cabela’s gift cards!
Questions about ABHuntLog? Email environment@metis.org.
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Climate Risk And Vulnerability Assessment
Join us online from 6 – 7:30 p.m. to learn about the impacts of climate change in your Territory as weather becomes less predictable and environmental hazards like wildfires and floods increase.
Experts will discuss future expectations and their potential impact on your community.
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Participate and share your observations of environmental changes, their effects on your family, and your adaptation strategies.
Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens who participate will have a chance to win one of five $100 cash gifts per session as a thank you for their input.
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Hunters' Role In Monitoring CWD In Alberta | |
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Hunters play a key role in monitoring Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Alberta.
If you're a Métis harvester, we encourage you to submit deer heads for CWD testing as part of the Government of Alberta's CWD Surveillance Program.
It's mandatory under Alberta’s hunting regulations and the Métis Harvesting in Alberta Policy to submit deer heads from the following Wildlife Management Units (WMUs): 148, 150, 151, 200, 234, 236, 728, and 730.
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Learn more about CWD, the surveillance program, and carcass handling,
Happy and safe harvesting!
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Askîy Fish Health Community Monitoring Program
Out fishing? Tell us about it!
We want to know about your fishing activities, what you’re catching, how the fish taste, and more.
Fill out any (or all) of our fishing forms between September 1 and December 31 and be entered to win a $250 Cabela’s gift card.
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Want to know what we’ve learned from your submissions?
Check out our new Fish Community Monitoring StoryMap!
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Sports & Recreation Grant
We’re excited to re-open our Sports and Recreation Grant with a new online portal, available starting Monday, November 18 at 9 a.m.
This program offers financial support for Métis youth (aged 5 – 17) to cover sports and recreation registration and equipment costs.
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Applicants must be Citizens of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government and provide proof of enrollment and receipts.
Required documents:
• Government ID
• Children’s long-form birth certificate(s)
• Receipts
The application process takes about 30 days. Funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more info, visit our website or email sports@metis.org.
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Keeping it Riel Podcast
Join us in beginning a brand-new season of the Keeping it Riel Podcast!
We’re excited to start a new season, sharing stories with amazing guests from across the Homeland.
In our first episode, we’re joined by Rebecca Lavallee, the Youth Representative on the Citizens' Council.
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Listen as she advises Métis Youth to get involved with politics. Métis Youth are needed as leaders – offering an important voice in governance with unique perspectives.
The episode is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and through the link in our social media channels @abmetisyouth.
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Check out our ongoing youth programming this fall! | |
Central Youth Night
Join us every Wednesday from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Youth building 11821 123 Street NW, Edmonton AB.
Drop-in Métis youth aged 12 – 29 from any district are welcome to attend with their friends and family! New activities every week!
Questions? Email Bailey at blohmann@metis.org
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Biweekly Beading Circle
Join us online or in person at Youth Building, 11821 123 Street NW Edmonton, every second week, Tuesdays 6 – 8 p.m.!
Métis youth aged 12 – 29 from any district are welcome to register online! Beginners welcome!
All beading materials and supplies are provided.
Questions? Email us at youth@metis.org
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Métis Veterans Legacy Program
Did you or a loved one serve in the Second World War between September 1, 1939, and April 1, 1947?
The Métis National Council is committed to preserving the legacy of Métis Veterans and ensuring their achievements and sacrifices are honored and recognized.
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Learn more about the Métis Veterans Legacy Program and complete the Métis Recognition Payment Submission Form: | |
District Election Certified Results
The certified results are in for the 2024 District Elections. Congratulations to our elected leaders and thank you to everyone who stepped up to the plate and ran for District Office.
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Find your Citizens’ Council Representative or District Captain! | | | | |
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Healthcare Entry Level Cohort Training Initiative
The healthcare industry is a growing field that takes dedicated individuals to facilitate integral services to community.
Here at RLI, we are developing a new healthcare centered initiative and we want to hear from YOU!
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We're looking to gauge interest in a 6 month healthcare training program cohort to prepare you for entry-level roles with Alberta Health Services.
To express your interest in this opportunity, fill out the survey below.
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Free Admission To The Annual Holiday Market | |
Join us for a two-day Holiday Market at Métis Crossing on Saturday, November 23.
This event celebrates Indigenous artisans and local vendors.
Explore a diverse selection of handmade jewelry, unique artworks, bath products, crafts, and more—there’s truly something for everyone!
Support small businesses, shop local, and connect with your community at this festive annual event.
We look forward to seeing you there!
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Celebrate The Season With Us | Celebrate the season at Métis Crossing, where stunning winter landscapes, modern facilities, authentic Indigenous experiences, a festive menu, and diverse entertainment options come together to create the perfect atmosphere for a culturally enriched holiday gathering. | | | | |
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Every Voice Counts, And We Want To Ensure You’re Heard! | |
Thank you to everyone who has updated their information!
Please ensure your contact details are accurate to vote in your districts.
If you haven’t updated your profile yet, take a moment to do so!
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Register Your Kids For Métis Citizenship
Enjoy exciting cultural Opportunities! With your Otipemisiwak Métis Government citizenship, enjoy parks pass through the Indigenous Peoples Open Doors Program.
Come to the provincial office from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, or join us for our extended hours:
November 23 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
November 26 from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Or visit us at one of these locations:
November 19 in Cochrane from 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the SLS Centre.
November 19 in Devon from 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Devon Community Centre.
November 20 in Blackfalds from 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Abbey Centre.
November 21 in Fort Saskatchewan from 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Dow Centennial Centre.
November 27 In Rocky Mountain House from 12 – 4 p.m. at the Âsokêwin Native Friendship Centre.
November 27 in St. Albert from 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Servus Credit Union Place.
We’ll have a Commissioner of Oaths on-site, and you can also get your photos taken here. Additionally, we’re accepting harvesting applications!
We look forward to welcoming you!
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Celebrate the season at Métis Crossing! | | | | |
