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This week, we gathered across Alberta for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. I was honoured to join Citizens at Métis Crossing, while Secretary Sarah Wolfe represented our government alongside Minister Sawhney and the Government of Alberta.
In Fort Vermilion, when County Council denied a request to repaint the Truth and Reconciliation crosswalk, Citizens’ Representative Bobbi Paul-Alook helped lead a partnership that created a new Every Child Matters mural and flag. In Slave Lake, thanks to Secretary Grant Lacombe, a Métis flag now flies proudly in the community.
Citizens may also have seen my op-ed with Secretary Kaila Mitchell in the Edmonton Journal on our ties to Jasper and the displacement of Métis families from that homeland.
Telling our truths, self-government, and democracy all require participation. Whether that’s raising our flag, painting a mural, or voting in an election, every action adds to the collective strength of our government.
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Upcoming Office Closure Dates
Please note our upcoming office closures on the dates below.
Thanksgiving
Oct. 13, 2025
Remembrance Day
Nov. 11, 2025
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Citizen Spotlight: Dr. Kim Hogarth
Congratulations to Dr. Kim Hogarth on her new role as Chief Nursing Officer. Dr Hogarth has shown she is passionate about health, and building strong partnerships. On September 21, 2025, she was appointed the first Chief Nursing Officer for Primary Care Alberta (PCA), where she will guide strategic direction in governance and workforce planning.
Dr. Hogarth’s academic experience includes a Master's of Nursing in Nurse Practitioner through Athabasca University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice through Aspen University. From being an instructor to becoming Dean at Red Deer Polytechnic, her education has given her the ability to teach, oversee, and lead.
Her experience led her to become the Executive Director of PCA, where she again demonstrated her strong leadership skills. With a clinical background in rural emergency, labour and delivery, and acute care, she is a dedicated advocate for nurses across the province. Her passion for Indigenous health and commitment to building strong partnerships with Indigenous communities will be an asset to her future success.
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Voting Information
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.
Electronic and in-person voting will be available during the election period for all eligible Citizens aged 16 and older who are ordinarily a resident in a District or Sub-District where an Otipemisiwak Métis Government election is being held.
In-person voting for Fort McMurray and Lesser Slave Lake will take place in the District or Sub-District where you reside. For Lac Ste Anne, Sub-Districts without a voting station will need to go to another location in their District, such as Whitecourt, to vote for their District Captain. All polling locations will operate from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Should you require voting assistance, please contact the Chief Electoral Office at 1-877-576-4250 or email elections@metis.org
More information can be found at www.metiselectionsab.com
Electronic Voting
Electronic voting will be open from October 20–27.
Registration for online voting will open on October 17 at www.metiselectionsab.com. Once your form is submitted, it may take 24 to 48 hours to confirm your information. You will be emailed a PIN and voting instructions when you are confirmed. Please note that registration and voting are separate steps — while registration begins on October 17, electronic voting will not open until October 20, when Citizens can begin casting their votes.
** Due to processing time, registration for online voting will be closed on October 27 at 6 p.m. Please complete your form well in advance to ensure you have time to receive your PIN and cast your vote.
In-Person Voting
In-person voting will take place in the District (or Sub-District) where you reside from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Lac Ste. Anne Métis District
Fort McMurray Métis District
Lesser Slave Lake Métis District
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Notice of Candidates Early Fall
Find out who is running for District Council in your area!
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Join Us At The Battle River Métis Festival!
Come on down south for the Battle River Métis Festival! On October 4 from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., join us at the Agri-food Hub and Trade Centre in Lethbridge for a fun-filled day. There will be a crib tournament, Artisan Market, Youth activities, and live entertainment from performers including Martin Desjarlais, Jacqui Daniels, Erin Berland, Northern Prairie Dancers, and more!
We hope to see you there! If you have questions, please contact Alex Kusturok at akusturok@metis.org.
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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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PICS: Virtual Engagement FINAL SESSION
Our Consultation Department wants to hear from our women, youth aged 16 to 29, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Citizens from across the province!
Attend our Virtual Engagement Session open to Citizens across the province and share your thoughts on how we can help you connect with your Métis community and culture.
This is the final opportunity to participate in the PICS engagements, as the project is wrapping up this year, and we will not be hosting any more group engagements under this project.
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Participants are eligible for an honorarium.
Women: October 14, 2025 | 6 p.m.–9 p.m.
Youth: October 15, 2025 | 6 p.m.– 9 p.m.
2SLGBTQQIA+: October 16, 2025 | 6 p.m.–9 p.m.
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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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Don't Miss Out On The Young Readers Program!
Already part of our Young Readers Program? We’d love to hear which books your little ones have loved most. Email us a youngreaders@metis.org!
Not signed up yet? Don’t miss out! Your young Métis reader could receive a FREE book every month.
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FASD Resources Kit Registration Open Now
Rooted in Métis culture and guided by respect and care, our program is designed to support caregivers of loved ones impacted by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Through this program, caregivers will receive practical tools, strategies, and culturally grounded guidance to better support Métis families navigating the challenges of FASD. Centered on Métis values, our approach fosters connection, understanding, and empowerment for both caregivers and their loved ones.
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Métis Mingle: Fort McMurray!
Métis Mingle: Building Blocks for Family, Well-being, and Culture is coming to Alberta! This free event for Métis families with children aged 6–17 offers fun, interactive workshops like mindfulness, jigging, LEGO, and dot art—plus breakfast and lunch included.
Workshops for adults and kids run at the same time. Space is limited and eligibility applies. Métis families must live within two hours of the event and have children within the eligible age range. Childcare will not be provided.
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Askîy Wildlife Community Monitor Program
Report your animal sightings and harvests at albertametis.com/wildlife-report!
Until March, each completed form lets you enter for a chance to win a $250 Cabela’s gift card. First-time participants and Citizens who’ve submitted at least one wildlife monitoring form this season can also enter separate draws for a $100 Cabela’s gift card.
Questions? Please reach out to environment@metis.org.
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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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Jump Into Hunting Season With ABHuntLog
Have you downloaded the iHunter app and used the ABHuntLog feature? It is the perfect tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to track their trips and share their observations!
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 DO NOT need Métis Harvester Identification Cards to be entered to win! However, an Otipemisiwak Métis Government citizenship number is required to claim “Métis Harvester” prizes. | | | | |
Pathways To Healthy Living | | | |
Cancer Support And Navigation —
Support Is Available
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with cancer? The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Health Department is here to help. Through our Supports and Services Navigation (SSN) Program, we provide cancer-specific resources and navigation, including referrals to cancer-related supports and services, and follow-up support throughout your cancer journey.
If you are looking for travel funding, applications can be made to the Medical Travel Program.
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Cervix Self-Screening Tests Available
You can now screen for cervical cancer yourself in the comfort of your own home or anywhere you feel most comfortable. It is easy, painless, accurate, and free of charge.
To see if you are eligible for self screening visit the website or call AHS Screening Programs at 1-866-727-3926, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
You can also email us at health@metis.org for information on how to order a self-sampling kit via an online form.
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Register Today For
Land-Based QuitCore
Join us October 17–19 at Métis Crossing to start your journey with the Land-based QuitCore Program.
If you are an aged 18+ Citizen of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government who is considering making a change in their smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco habits, the Land-based QuitCore could be for you.
Participants must arrive at Métis Crossing by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, October 17.The program will begin at that time and continue until Sunday at 11 a.m.
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Attendance is mandatory for the entire weekend to be eligible for a $500 Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) benefits card. If any portion is missed, you will not be eligible for the $500.
The registration deadline is October 6.
Citizens must provide their own transportation to and from Métis Crossing. Mileage will be provided at .35/Km.
All meals and accommodations are included.
Register today by emailing tobaccoreduction@metis.org
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Ni Natoohtaan (I Listen) - Psychology Benefit Program
In partnership with Alberta Clue 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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Breaking the Silence – Empowering Métis
Men and Boys
Breaking the Silence – Empowering Métis Men and Boys, is a province-wide engagement initiative focused on gender-based violence and the realities facing missing and murdered Indigenous men and boys.
Community gatherings will take place in Edmonton, Calgary, Grande Prairie, Lac La Biche, and Lethbridge. Male-identifying participants aged 18 and over will be invited into culturally grounded, trauma-informed spaces for dialogue, reflection, and healing.
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Elders/Knowledge Keepers, and mental health supports will ensure participants feel safe, respected, and supported.
To register please email us at justice@metis.org.
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Equine Assisted Workshop
Did you know horses have a powerful way of communicating and can help people develop important life skills?
This unique workshop offers Métis men the opportunity to gain valuable insights about themselves, enhance their relational skills, and learn about Métis cultural values.
If you’re interested in joining us on October 18 in Olds for a one-day equine-assisted learning (EAL) workshop for Métis men aged 18+, email justice@metis.org to receive a registration link. Please note there are limited spots available.
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Kick Off Spooky Season With A Craft Night!
Join us to bead your very own witch hat earrings while learning the brick stitch and ladder stitch.
You’ll head home with a new skill and a pair of festive earrings to show off!
Youth night is hosted every Wednesday from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Youth Building
11821 123 Street NW, Edmonton
Métis Youth aged 12–29 from any district are welcome to register online!
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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 | | | | |
Métis Public Art Gathering
Calgary Arts Development is honoured to be facilitating a public art initiative in collaboration with the Métis community. To begin this project in a good way, through relationship building, storytelling, and knowledge sharing — we invite members of the Métis community to join us for a Métis Public Art Gathering in Calgary.
Saturday, October 18, 2025
The Confluence (750 9 Ave. SE) I 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Site visits (locations to be announced) I 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Please register through the Eventbrite link by October 16 to reserve your spot at the Métis Public Art Gathering. Space is limited.
Please share this invitation with your Métis friends, family, and Métis artists that may be interested.
Breakfast pastries and bison stew lunch catered by The Confluence.
Attendees will be entered into a draw to win gifts at the event.
The agenda for this Gathering will include:
- Introducing the vision for the Métis Public Art Initiative
- Hearing from leading Métis artists and cultural workers from across Turtle Island
- Taking part in a guided workshop to share stories, ideas, and aspirations
- Visiting culturally and historically significant sites around Calgary with Métis archaeologist Dawn Wambold and Métis historian Matt Hiltermann
This gathering is a meaningful first step in ensuring the project is rooted in Métis voices, history, and ways of knowing. The event is open exclusively to members of the Métis community.
You can help shape this initiative by filling out our Métis Project survey.
You can learn more about the Métis Project and Calgary Arts Development’s other Indigenous public art projects here.
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Smoky Lake Great White North Pumpkin Fair at Métis Crossing
Celebrate autumn in true Métis spirit at the Smoky Lake Great White North Pumpkin Fair, hosted at Métis Crossing.
October 5, 2025
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Enjoy a hearty BBQ lunch at noon, family-friendly activities, and the warmth of Métis hospitality
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This fall gathering is the perfect opportunity to connect with loved ones, take in the beauty of the land as the leaves change, and experience Métis traditions in a welcoming cultural setting.
With hands-on activities for all ages, delicious food, and an atmosphere filled with laughter and community, it’s a day you won’t want to miss.
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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 PM – 4 PM
Groups: Up to 20 participants
$50 Adults | $45 Youth/Seniors
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Fall Market Applications Are Closed, But You Can Still Join Us!
Thank you to everyone who applied to the 2025 Fall Market! Although applications are now closed, kisîhtoskâtonaw Métis Art Collective invites Métis artists to join our growing creative community. Join the Métis Artist Compendium to stay informed about upcoming opportunities, showcases, and events throughout the year.
Join using the form below or email metisart@metis.org for more information.
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Métis Scholar Awards Applications Are Now Open!
The Métis Education Foundation (MEF) is proud to open applications for the following awards:
MEF – Métis Scholar Award(s)
Supporting Métis Citizens pursuing academic, artistic, or athletic excellence at the provincial, national, or international level, bringing recognition to the Métis community in Alberta.
MEF Early Learning and Child Care – Métis Scholar Award
Awarded to Métis Citizens enrolled full-time in Early Learning and Child Care programs.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be recognized and supported in your educational journey. Applications close on October 30 at 11:59 p.m.
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Otipemisiwak Métis Government Community Awards—Now Open!
Each year, through the Métis Education Foundation, these awards recognize Métis students for their academic success and community involvement. Recipients will be honoured during the 25th Delia Gray Gala in November — an event to highlight their achievements and contributions to the community.
Deadline: October 30 at 11:59 p.m.
Applications are completed through the Google Form.
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Ignite Your Digital Skills With Rupertsland Institute And Jelly Academy ONLINE
Our digital skills workshop combines the worlds of social media influencing and video game design to give YOU the best of both worlds.
October 16–November 4
5 p.m.–8 p.m.
What's involved? Four days of exposure to worlds of social media brand building and independent game design.
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Days One and Two are centered on building your digital brand and Days Three and Four are all about video game design.
Learn from industry experts who ignite their business.
Participants will need a reliable internet connection to complete this workshop.
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