TAWÂW, PIHTIKWÎ: WELCOME, THERE IS ROOM FOR YOU
St. Albert Métis District
St. Albert Métis District (Previously known as St. Albert-Sturgeon County Metis Local #1904)
was developed in 2016 as a means to recapture and preserve the city’s rich Métis heritage.
St. Albert Métis District is a non-profit society and is supported by the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
St. Albert Métis District represents the Elders, Youth, community and connection to culture.
We are committed to the past and future generations; instilling in them pride for their heritage and culture.
Everything we do is thanks to our dedicated community of volunteers. Maarcii
TAWÂW, PIHTIKWÎ: WELCOME, THERE IS ROOM FOR YOU
St. Albert Métis District
St. Albert Métis District (Previously known as St. Albert-Sturgeon County Metis Local #1904) was developed in 2016 as a means to recapture and preserve the city’s rich Métis heritage.
St. Albert Métis District is a non-profit society and is supported by the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.
St. Albert Métis District represents the Elders, Youth, community and connection to culture.
We are committed to the past and future generations; instilling in them pride for their heritage and culture.
Everything we do is thanks to our dedicated community of volunteers. Maarcii
Lii Michif Niiyanaan: We Are Métis
Heritage, History, and Heart
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government proclaims its Aboriginal nationhood founded on national principles, encompassing a shared history, common culture (music, dance, attire, national symbols), unique language (Michif), extensive familial ties, distinct lifestyle, ancestral lands, and a collective identity. The “historic Métis Nation Homeland” covers the prairie provinces, portions of Ontario, British Columbia, Northwest Territories, and the northern US.
The Métis are acknowledged in the 1982 Canadian Constitution: “Section 35 (1) the existing Treaty and aboriginal rights of the indigenous peoples of Canada are hereby recognized and affirmed; (2) In this Act, ‘aboriginal peoples of Canada’ includes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Lii Michif Niiyanaan: We Are Métis
Heritage, History, and Heart
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government proclaims its Aboriginal nationhood founded on national principles, encompassing a shared history, common culture (music, dance, attire, national symbols), unique language (Michif), extensive familial ties, distinct lifestyle, ancestral lands, and a collective identity. The “historic Métis Nation Homeland” covers the prairie provinces, portions of Ontario, British Columbia, Northwest Territories, and the northern US.
The Métis are acknowledged in the 1982 Canadian Constitution: “Section 35 (1) the existing Treaty and aboriginal rights of the indigenous peoples of Canada are hereby recognized and affirmed; (2) In this Act, ‘aboriginal peoples of Canada’ includes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Transition to St. Albert Métis District
At our 2023 Annual General Meeting and at the Transition Committee Information Session the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (Previously known as the Métis Nation of Alberta) assured our members that the Métis Locals will transition to the Districts of our Otipemisiwak Government.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government Constitution establishes a self-governing framework specifically for Métis people in Alberta. The term “Otipemisiwak,” meaning “the people who own themselves,” reflects a deep commitment to autonomy and self-governance.
For the Métis community in St. Albert, this constitution is vital as it enables our community to manage our own affairs according to Métis culture and values, while also safeguarding our rights to land, language, and resources. By preserving our unique heritage and strengthening our political standing, the constitution moves the Métis closer to full recognition from provincial and federal governments, granting greater influence and access to resources.
For St. Albert’s Métis, the Otipemisiwak Constitution signifies greater independence and ensures our voices are respected in shaping our future.
Transition to St. Albert Métis District
At our 2023 Annual General Meeting and at the Transition Committee Information Session the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (Previously known as the Métis Nation of Alberta) assured our members that the Métis Locals will transition to the Districts of our Otipemisiwak Government.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government Constitution establishes a self-governing framework specifically for Métis people in Alberta. The term “Otipemisiwak,” meaning “the people who own themselves,” reflects a deep commitment to autonomy and self-governance.
For the Métis community in St. Albert, this constitution is vital as it enables our community to manage our own affairs according to Métis culture and values, while also safeguarding our rights to land, language, and resources. By preserving our unique heritage and strengthening our political standing, the constitution moves the Métis closer to full recognition from provincial and federal governments, granting greater influence and access to resources.
For St. Albert’s Métis, the Otipemisiwak Constitution signifies greater independence and ensures our voices are respected in shaping our future.
La Vayritii: Truth
Wicihitowin Youville
The Wicihitowin Youville in St. Albert is a community-driven initiative dedicated to uncovering and acknowledging the historical truths surrounding the Youville Residential School, which operated in the area. This project seeks to engage the local community in meaningful conversations about the impact of the residential school system on Indigenous peoples, fostering reconciliation and healing. By preserving the stories of survivors and educating the public, the Wicihitowin Youville aims to ensure that this painful chapter in history is never forgotten, and that future generations can learn from the past to build a more just and equitable society.
Wiichihiwayhk: Service (To Help)
Our Programs and Services
Our St. Albert Métis District team strives to share and promote the Métis culture and heritage, diverse programs, educational opportunities, and valuable resources available to our Métis community. Our initiatives are designed to foster cultural preservation, support educational advancement, and provide essential services to enhance the well-being of our members. Explore the various projects aimed at celebrating our rich heritage, empowering our youth through education, and offering support to Métis seniors and families. Join us in our commitment to building a strong, vibrant, and united local Métis community.
Kishkinahamakew Taanday Chiitohtayhk: Guide
Events
Click here to find a comprehensive schedule of our upcoming events, including cultural celebrations, community gatherings, and more. These events bring our community together, celebrate Métis heritage, and provide valuable opportunities for learning and connection. Stay up-to-date with all the activities happening within our vibrant Métis community, and we look forward to seeing you at our next event!
Wiichiihiwayhk: Volunteer
Volunteer
Volunteering with St. Albert Métis District offers a meaningful opportunity to connect with the Métis community and contribute to the preservation of Métis culture and heritage. As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in supporting various community initiatives, events, and programs that enhance the well-being of Métis people in the St. Albert Métis District. Volunteering with St. Albert Métis District not only allows you to give back but also to deepen your understanding of Métis traditions and build lasting relationships within a welcoming and inclusive community.
Makaykway: Resources
Resources & Services
Find comprehensive information on the programs, opportunities, and valuable resources available to our Métis community. Initiatives are designed to foster cultural preservation, support educational advancement, and provide essential services to enhance the well-being of our members. Explore the various projects aimed at celebrating our rich heritage, empowering our youth through education, and offering support to Métis families. Join us in our commitment to building a strong, vibrant, and united Métis community.
La Vayritii: Truth
Wicihitowin Youville
The Wicihitowin Youville in St. Albert is a community-driven initiative dedicated to uncovering and acknowledging the historical truths surrounding the Youville Residential School, which operated in the area. This project seeks to engage the local community in meaningful conversations about the impact of the residential school system on Indigenous peoples, fostering reconciliation and healing. By preserving the stories of survivors and educating the public, the Wicihitowin Youville aims to ensure that this painful chapter in history is never forgotten, and that future generations can learn from the past to build a more just and equitable society.
Wiichihiwayhk: Service (To Help)
Our Programs and Services
Our St. Albert Métis District team strives to share and promote the Métis culture and heritage, diverse programs, educational opportunities, and valuable resources available to our Métis community. Our initiatives are designed to foster cultural preservation, support educational advancement, and provide essential services to enhance the well-being of our members. Explore the various projects aimed at celebrating our rich heritage, empowering our youth through education, and offering support to Métis seniors and families. Join us in our commitment to building a strong, vibrant, and united local Métis community.
Kishkinahamakew Taanday Chiitohtayhk: Guide
Events
Click here to find a comprehensive schedule of our upcoming events, including cultural celebrations, community gatherings, and more. These events bring our community together, celebrate Métis heritage, and provide valuable opportunities for learning and connection. Stay up-to-date with all the activities happening within our vibrant Métis community, and we look forward to seeing you at our next event!
Wiichiihiwayhk: Volunteer
Volunteer
Volunteering with St. Albert Métis District offers a meaningful opportunity to connect with the Métis community and contribute to the preservation of Métis culture and heritage. As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in supporting various community initiatives, events, and programs that enhance the well-being of Métis people in the St. Albert Métis District. Volunteering with St. Albert Métis District not only allows you to give back but also to deepen your understanding of Métis traditions and build lasting relationships within a welcoming and inclusive community.
Makaykway: Resources
Resources & Services
Find comprehensive information on the programs, opportunities, and valuable resources available to our Métis community. Initiatives are designed to foster cultural preservation, support educational advancement, and provide essential services to enhance the well-being of our members. Explore the various projects aimed at celebrating our rich heritage, empowering our youth through education, and offering support to Métis families. Join us in our commitment to building a strong, vibrant, and united Métis community.
Truth & Reconciliation
The Truth and Reconciliation initiative in St. Albert is a vital effort to confront and address the painful legacy of two residential schools in the area: Youville Residential School and Edmonton (Poundmaker) Residential School. These institutions, like many others across Canada, were part of a system that sought to assimilate Indigenous children, often through harsh and inhumane practices. The initiative aims to educate the community about the injustices endured by Indigenous peoples, honor the survivors and their families, and foster healing through dialogue and understanding. By acknowledging this dark chapter in history and working toward reconciliation, St. Albert seeks to build a future grounded in respect, equality, and truth.
*Warning: * This page’s content relates to the Residential School System and can be upsetting to many. If you need support, please get in touch with the Residential School Survivors and Family Crisis Line at 1-800-721-0066.
