President's Corner: August 7, 2025
Posted on: Aug 07, 2025
Today in Ottawa, I was proud to represent the Otipemisiwak Métis Government at the Canada–Métis Summit with Prime Minister Mark Carney, six federal Cabinet Ministers and other Métis leaders.
I went to that meeting with a clear objective from our Citizens, to make sure Canada knows we’re ready to collaborate, to be consulted, and to partner on projects that bring prosperity to our Citizens and all Canadians.
And I am happy to report that I believe our message was heard loud and clear.
The Prime Minister showed up with a collaborative tone and a willingness to listen. He acknowledged the contributions we brought forward as an Indigenous government and made clear commitments to exploring many of the solutions we brought to the table.
I reminded Canada that the Otipemisiwak Métis Government has always been a partner in building this country. From fur trade routes to railway ties, our roots as a people are found in commerce and connection. We’ve helped build this country before, and we must be involved as government-to-government partners in building it back up again.
As affirmed in the Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Agreement we have signed with Canada, our government has clearly defined jurisdiction, and the rights of our Citizens must be acknowledged and respected in all regulatory and permitting processes that impact our Citizens or communities.
That includes being partners in the conversation on national projects. We support responsible resource development. We have Citizens who operate cranes, drive trucks, and build the infrastructure this country relies on. We have businesses ready to partner and young people ready to train. But we can only succeed if our government is consulted and engaged from the start and throughout the entire process.
I told the Prime Minister that we are ready be a partner in economic prosperity and move projects forward. That’s why we also called on Alberta to be a true partner in this work. We need them at the table with us, not just when it’s convenient, but when it counts.
At every opportunity, I reminded leaders that we represent more than 73,000 Citizens, a population larger than several provinces and territories in this country. Our people are not an afterthought. We are builders. We are doers. And we’re ready to run as fast as Canada will run with us.
