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Earlier this week, I spoke at the Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous (FPTI) Ministers’ Meeting on Justice and Public Safety about what “community safety” really means for Métis people and why solutions can’t come from data that leaves us invisible. Métis are overrepresented in parts of the justice system, yet we have little to no distinctions-based data to understand why.
I reminded leaders that our government has done a lot with very little, but lasting solutions require more capacity and a stronger Métis voice at every table where justice and community safety are discussed.
That same commitment to justice was front and centre as we sought intervener status in the Federal Court of Appeal hearing on the Métis Sixties Scoop claim to make sure Métis survivors are heard and Métis people are never forgotten.
We will continue to stand up for truth, safety, and the right to shape our own future.
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Get Involved — Vote For Your Municipal Representative
October 20, 2025
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Early Fall Elections: Get Ready To Vote
Get ready to vote in the Early Fall District Elections on October 20–27, 2025.
Electronic and in-person voting will be available during the election period for any eligible Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government aged 16 and older.
Due to the Canada Post labour issues and disruptions to mail service, the Early Fall District Elections on October 20–27, 2025 will not proceed with mail-in voting.
Should you require voting assistance, please contact the Chief Electoral Office at
1-877-576-4250 or email elections@metis.org.
More information about polling locations, online voting registration, and more can be found at metiselectionsab.com.
In-Person Voting
All polling locations will operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
In-person voting will take place in the District or Sub-District where you have lived in the last 90 days.
REMINDER: Sub-Districts in Lac Ste. Anne Métis District without a polling station will need to go to another location in the District, such as Whitecourt, to vote for their District Captain.
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Registration for online voting will open on October 17 until October 27 at 6 p.m.
Please complete your registration form well in advance to ensure you have time to receive your PIN and cast your electronic vote.
REMINDER: Citizens can only begin casting their electronic vote on October 20, when the voting period begins.
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Late Fall Elections
The candidates for the Late Fall Elections have been determined. Find out who is running to represent you!
UPDATE: On October 7, 2025, the Cabinet of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government voted to delay the voting period for the Late Fall Elections scheduled for November 16–22, 2025, due to the Canada Post workers strike, with new voting dates to be set once mail-in voting, in-person voting, and electronic voting methods will be available.
Candidates may continue campaigning during the voting period delay.
If you require more information, please contact the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer or visit metiselectionsab.com.
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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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Secretary Spotlight: Karen (KC) Collins
This month, Secretary Karen (KC) Collins is featured in the Secretary Spotlight. As the Provincial Secretary for Metis Settlement and First Nation Relations, and Language Revitalization, she recognizes that relationships are key to advancing our Nation’s cause and that languages are key to our Nationhood.
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Citizen Spotlight: Fireweed Wellness Lodge
Congratulations to Citizens Sheena Bradley and Maddie Amyotte on the grand opening of Fireweed Wellness Lodge!
This new lodge is a safe, welcoming space in downtown Fort McMurray where families can access Indigenous-led reproductive and holistic care. We were proud to celebrate alongside the Children and Family Services Department, recognizing the importance of bringing such a much-needed, accessible wellness facility to the community.
Rooted in cultural safety and community care, Fireweed Wellness Lodge is home to the Indigenous non-profit Ihkapaskwa Collective and Aunties Within Reach, offering midwifery and birth work support, access to traditional plant medicines and teachings, parenting and family wellness programs, as well as culturally grounded mental health and healing services. Whether seeking guidance during pregnancy, support on a parenting journey, or access to traditional medicines and cultural knowledge, Fireweed Wellness Lodge provides a space where healing, learning, and culture come together.
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Mark Your Calendar: Métis Games May 2026!
Start planning early for a weekend of fun at our annual Métis Games May 15 to May 17, 2026 at Rally Pointe, Calgary!
We’re getting ready for another unforgettable celebration of sports, culture, and community and we want you to be part of it! With exciting new activities, delicious food, and more, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Registration will open October 21, 2025, at 10 a.m. Spots are limited, so make sure to sign up fast!
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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 where you are eligible to vote in is based on your physical address, not mailing address.
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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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Youth Harvesting Update
As of August 1, 2025, the minimum age to hunt big game is 10 years old.
If a youth Citizen is 10 years of age or older and is an MNA-approved harvester, they are now permitted to harvest big game in their approved harvesting area(s).
We recommend that Métis Citizens under the age of 10 accompany their parents on hunts to learn the harvesting process and prepare for big game hunting when they turn 10.
| | Youth under the age of 16 still must be accompanied by a consenting adult who holds either an MNA harvester card or a provincial hunting licence. | | | | |
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Artist Opportunity
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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Celebrate the Beauty of Métis Floral Beadwork, Right from Home!
Introducing the Li Fleur Beading Natoona Michif Pimatisiwin (Exploring Métis Culture) at Home Kit!
Created especially for Métis children aged 0–11, this kit is designed to spark creativity, build cultural pride, and keep traditions alive—one bead at a time.
Don’t miss your chance to connect, create, and celebrate Métis identity at home.
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Each kit includes:
- A child-friendly beading set
- An activity booklet exploring the history and meaning of Métis beadwork
- Fun sticker sheets to design your own beadwork creations
Eligible families must:
- Reside in Alberta
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Have at least one Métis child aged 0–11
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Have either the Métis child or their caregiver registered as an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen
Don’t miss your chance to connect, create, and celebrate Métis identity at home!
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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, value, 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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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 the Alberta’s Chronic Wasting Disease – Information for Hunters page.
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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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Have Questions About ABHuntLog?
Do you want to know more about ABHuntLog? The Otipemisiwak Métis Government has partnered with the Alberta Conservation Association and iHunter to involve Citizens in monitoring wildlife populations.
For more information about the app, check out the “Frequently Asked Questions” page.
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By participating in wildlife population monitoring, you are also building awareness about the role of hunting and harvesting in the Métis economy. Your participation will help us gain a better understanding of the efforts and costs involved in each hunting trip made to feed your family.
Still have questions about ABHuntLog? Reach out to environment@metis.org.
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Sustainability Tip: Advance Climate Change Policy With Your Climate Change Research
Apply for the Indigenous Perspectives Program, an initiative from the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources and the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIEC)!
The program is for Indigenous researchers, Knowledge Holders, and writers who wish to publish case studies that can advance climate policy from an Indigenous perspective.
The Canadian Climate Institute will issue four $15,000 research stipends, one per successful applicant, and publish their case studies. Additionally, successful candidates will get to discuss their work with governments, industry, non-profits, academics, and community members via a public, virtual roundtable.
Applications close on November 3, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. PST.
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Pathways To Healthy Living | | | |
COMPASS for the Caregiver – A Six-Week Support Program
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government, in partnership with Caregivers Alberta, is offering COMPASS for the Caregiver.
Gina Levasseur, Community Wellness Coordinator, will guide participants through modules on:
- Recognizing your strengths and needs as a caregiver
- Managing stress and preventing burnout
- Balancing relationships and asking for help
- Planning and navigating caregiving services
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Fridays
October 31 – December 5, 2025
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (MT)
Online via Zoom
Free workbooks will be mailed before the start date.
Limited spots are available.
For more information or support completing the form, contact Gina at glevasseur@metis.org.
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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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Ni Natoohtaan (I Listen) - Psychology Benefit Program
In partnership with Alberta Blue Cross, the Psychology Benefit Program, Ni Natoohtaan, provides fundings to Métis Citizens in accessing 12 sessions with a psychologist or social worker for complex mental health needs.
If you are currently seeing a licensed psychologist or social worker, you may be eligible to receive financial coverage for 12 sessions. Applications will open on October 20 and close once the first 100 applications have been approved.
PLEASE NOTE: Our eligibility criteria have changed.
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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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Submit your artwork using the entry form here: linktr.ee/ABMetisYouth and email submissions to youth@metis.org.
Aged Categories:
(One winner per category)
Vote in-person at the Youth Building Open House on November 20, 11 a.m.– 3 p.m.
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Learn Michif With Dan The Michif Man
Join us and 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.
Upcoming Classes:
October 7
October 21
Everyone is welcome to tune in and pick up some Michif teachings!
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DID YOU KNOW?
There are participation incentives for Métis Youth Citizens aged 12– 29! Work towards a prize by completing the corresponding worksheet for each biweekly video.
Register online so you never miss a lesson!
Contact Rylee at rsargeant@metis.org for more information.
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Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
Celebrating 20 Years of Métis Crossing: A Message from President Andrea Sandmaier
This year marks a remarkable milestone — 20 years since Métis Crossing first opened its doors to the public. In her heartfelt statement, President Andrea Sandmaier reflects on two decades of growth, resilience, and connection — from our beginnings on historic river lots to becoming one of Alberta’s leading Indigenous tourism destinations.
President Sandmaier honours the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Citizens, and partners whose vision and dedication built the foundation of Métis Crossing as a place of learning, healing, and inspiration.
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Reconnect with Tradition At The Métis Traditional Skills Workshop
Step into a hands-on cultural experience this fall at the Métis Traditional Skills Workshop, led by Elder Lilyrose Meyers. Over two days, participants will explore quillwork, hair tufting, appliqué, natural dyes, and Métis embroidery—skills that carry both artistic beauty and deep cultural meaning.
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This workshop is more than crafting—it’s about learning sustainable practices, respecting the land, and preserving Métis traditions for future generations. Each technique forms the foundation for larger cultural creations, from moccasins to capotes, while grounding participants in Métis values and identity.
With all materials provided and guidance from an Elder, this intimate workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect with heritage while creating meaningful keepsakes to take home.
October 11–12, 2025
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily
Groups up to 15
Adults $150 | Youth/Seniors $125
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this immersive cultural journey.
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Beaded Poppy Workshop: Stories, Culture & Reflection
This fall, join Métis Crossing Elder Lilyrose Meyers for a meaningful afternoon of learning, reflection, and creativity. In the Beaded Poppy Workshop, you’ll hear powerful stories about Métis veterans and the deep significance of the beaded poppy as a symbol of remembrance.
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The workshop includes a guided walk to the Veterans’ Monument—a place of honour and reflection—followed by hands-on learning of traditional Métis arts. Using tufting, embroidery, and beading techniques, you’ll create your own unique beaded poppy pin to take home as a lasting symbol of remembrance.
All supplies, coffee, and tea are included. Space is limited—reserve your spot today and take part in this moving experience of history, culture, and artistry.
October 25, 2025
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Groups: Up to 20 participants
$50 Adults | $45 Youth/Seniors
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Save the Date: 2025 Fall Métis Market!
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.
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Saturday, November 15, 2025
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Kingsway Mall
109 St & Kingsway, Edmonton
HyperPOP Space, 2nd level near Marshalls
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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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 their 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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Ignite Your Digital Skills With Rupertsland Institute And Jelly Academy ONLINE
What's involved? Four seminars centered on building your digital brand and learning how to design and program video games.
Learn from experts who are igniting the media industry and have their fingers on the pulse of social media.
Participants will need a reliable internet connection to complete this workshop.
Sign up to ignite your digital game now!
Seminars run from October 30 to November 20.
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