Otipemisiwak Métis Government Marks Two Years of Self-Government Recognition, Calls for Finalization of Otipemisiwak Treaty
Posted on: Feb 24, 2025
Edmonton, AB (February 24, 2025) – Two years ago, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government and Canada made history by signing the Métis Nation within Alberta Government Recognition and Self-Government Implementation Agreement, formally recognizing the Métis Nation within Alberta’s inherent right to self-government.
Since then, the Métis within Alberta have ratified their Constitution, held their first elections for the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, and convened at the inaugural Citizens’ Gathering to shape the path ahead.
“Today, we celebrate our progress while reaffirming our commitment to securing full constitutional protection for our self-government,” said Andrea Sandmaier, President of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. “We have upheld our commitments, now it is time for Canada to do the same by finalizing our Otipemisiwak Treaty.”
The 2023 agreement included a commitment to negotiate a modern-day, self-government Otipemisiwak Treaty between the Métis Nation within Alberta and Canada. This agreement is not just symbolic, it is the foundation for securing a brighter future for Métis Citizens, grounded in inherent Métis and Section 35 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms rights.
Unlike historic treaties, also known as “Numbered Treaties,” modern-day treaties are developed within contemporary legal frameworks, including constitutional rights and international standards, such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Modern-day treaties in the context of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government are not land or regionally-based, and will reconcile Indigenous rights and interests with broader societal interests, promoting self-determination and Indigenous governance.
“For too long, our people have been left out and forgotten,” added President Sandmaier. “Negotiating an Otipemisiwak Treaty is a crucial step in reconciliation and a test of Canada’s commitment to nation-to-nation, government-to-government relationships. It will finally ensure that our self-government is not only recognized, but protected.”
To keep Citizens informed and engaged, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government is launching an Otipemisiwak Treaty Frequently Asked Questions webpage, offering updates and information on the Treaty negotiation process. This webpage will be frequently updated as more details on negotiations become available, and information will also be shared to Métis Citizens through other forms of communications.
Canada has made commitments to reconciliation and to rebuilding nation-to-nation and government-to-government relationships with Indigenous peoples. It is time for Canada to finalize a Treaty for the Métis Nation within Alberta and enshrine Métis rights in law.
For more information, visit albertametis.com/governance/otipemisiwak-treaty/
Media Contact:
Kenny Trenton, Press Secretary
ktrenton@metis.org