Across the MNO, our regions continue to advance priorities that reflect the unique needs and strengths of their communities. The following updates highlight some of the accomplishments, initiatives, and milestones from across the MNO’s nine regions, showcasing the important work being done by Regional Councillors, Community Councils and Advisory Councils to serve MNO where they live.
PCMNO Reports
Region 1 – The Northwestern Ontario Métis Community
Region 1 continued to advance the priorities of Métis citizens across Northwestern Ontario while celebrating one of the most significant milestones in its history.
In 2025, the Northwestern Ontario Métis Community proudly commemorated the 150th anniversary of the Halfbreed Adhesion to Treaty No. 3—a defining moment that recognizes the NWOMC as the only Métis community in the Homeland to collectively adhere to a historic treaty. The anniversary was marked through commemorative events, educational resources, museum exhibits, interpretive signage, and historical publications that celebrated the community’s unique heritage and enduring connection to the land.
Throughout the year, Region 1 also made significant progress in preserving and sharing its history. The launch of the NWOMC website created a central resource for citizens, while work continued on updating the Northwestern Ontario Métis Community Atlas, expanding Southern Michif language programming, publishing children’s books, and producing educational videos and historical materials that highlight the region’s distinct identity.
Alongside these cultural initiatives, Region 1 remained actively engaged in consultations on major mining, forestry, energy, transmission, and infrastructure projects across Northwestern Ontario. Regional leadership continued to advocate for Métis rights and interests while advancing work on self-government and constitutional development, ensuring the Northwestern Ontario Métis Community has a strong voice in decisions that shape the region.
Region 2
Region 2 saw a year of steady progress, collaboration, and renewed momentum. Efforts in our region focused on strengthening governance, supporting community priorities, and ensuring the voices of Métis citizens were reflected in important decisions affecting the region.
Work continued to advance Transfer Payment Agreements and Community Benefit Agreements, helping secure resources, fulfill commitments, and create new opportunities for communities across the region.
A key part of the region’s work involved consultation on major projects and initiatives, including the Greenstone Transmission Line, moose research, land stewardship efforts, and mining developments. Through these discussions, Region 2 worked to ensure that Métis perspectives on the environment, water, wildlife, and traditional ways of life were heard and respected.
Beyond governance and consultation, Region 2 remained active in communities throughout Northwestern Ontario. From Louis Riel Day celebrations and local council gatherings to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events and National Indigenous Peoples Day activities, the region continued to build relationships, strengthen partnerships, and promote Métis culture and visibility.
The year also brought exciting developments that will benefit citizens for years to come. New land stewardship initiatives moved forward, plans continued for Thunder Bay’s first Métis daycare facility, and partnerships were strengthened to support youth transitional housing.
Together, these accomplishments reflect Region 2’s commitment to creating opportunities, supporting citizens, and building a stronger future for Métis communities across the region.
Region 3 – Abitibi Inland Métis Community
Region 3 had another productive year focused on supporting citizens, strengthening local communities, and creating new opportunities across the Abitibi Inland Métis Community.
The region continued to build strong partnerships with local businesses and industry while advancing new agreements with project proponents. At the same time, citizens received direct support through post-secondary and student bursaries, medical travel assistance, extracurricular funding, and special medical supports. Councils also received funding for cultural programming and food security initiatives that help strengthen community connections.
One of the year’s highlights was the continued growth of the Region 3 Business Summit and Business Pitch competition. The initiative has become an important opportunity for Métis entrepreneurs to develop their ideas, receive mentorship, and compete for funding to help grow their businesses.
Since 2023, the program has supported 36 entrepreneurs in securing nearly $9.8 million in business startup and expansion funding, while additional workshops provided practical training in business planning, bookkeeping, and accessing financial supports.
Throughout the year, Region 3 also continued to strengthen governance through regular committee meetings, council training, and new partnerships with industry. Progress was made on initiatives that celebrate Métis history and culture, including recognizing the historic Kenogamissi Métis cemetery and exploring opportunities to establish a dedicated space for cultural gatherings and teachings. Together, these efforts reflect Region 3’s commitment to supporting citizens while fostering a vibrant and connected Métis community.
Region 4 – The Huron Superior Métis Community
Region 4 experienced a year of growth, collaboration, and community engagement, with a strong focus on celebrating Métis culture while expanding services and opportunities for citizens.
A major highlight was successfully hosting the 2025 Métis Nation of Ontario Annual General Assembly in Sault Ste. Marie, welcoming citizens from across the province to the historic River Lots. The gathering showcased the region’s rich history through cultural programming, guided tours, and community events while also supporting fundraising efforts for the Sacred Heart Cemetery monument. Region 4 also hosted two regional Self-Government Sessions, giving citizens the opportunity to help shape the future Métis Constitution.
The region also celebrated several milestones that strengthened connections to Métis history and community life. The Sault Ste. Marie Métis Heritage Centre officially opened to the public, offering tours and educational experiences that welcomed both citizens and visitors. New resources, including the Regional Harvester Guidebook, expanded citizen support programs, and the launch of the Huron-Superior Regional Métis Community website, made it easier for citizens to access services, information, and regional events.
Throughout the year, Region 4 brought citizens together through concerts, workshops, cultural celebrations, and family events, while also expanding programs that supported food security, help around the house, and community wellness. Partnerships with local organizations and municipalities helped preserve Métis heritage and ensure that the region continues to celebrate its history while providing meaningful support for citizens across the Huron-Superior Regional Métis Community.
Region 5 – Mattawa/Ottawa River and Killarney Métis Community
Region 5 continued to focus on strengthening opportunities and supports for citizens across the Mattawa, North Bay, and Sudbury areas.
With more than 2,770 citizens and 675 registered harvesters, the region worked to advance initiatives that directly benefit families, youth, students, harvesters, and Métis businesses.
Key projects included the ongoing Our Story initiative, medical aid supports, youth school and sports assistance, post-secondary student grants, hunting and boating courses, and the development of a Métis Business Directory.
The region also its first annual Regional Rendezvous on July 25, bringing citizens together to celebrate community and culture. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the organizers, staff and volunteers that helped to make this event a success.
Throughout the year, Region 5 remained actively engaged in advocacy, consultation, and relationship-building. Work continued on several proponent agreements that have the potential to create long-term benefits for citizens through funding, education and training opportunities, business development, and employment.
The region also continued to support restorative justice initiatives and worked with businesses to create new opportunities for Métis citizens.
Monthly consultation committee meetings, regional gatherings, lands and resources discussions, and self-government roundtables helped ensure citizens’ voices were represented on issues that matter to the region. Participation in cultural events, educational celebrations, and Indigenous community initiatives further strengthened relationships and increased Métis visibility throughout the region.
Region 6
Region 6 had an active and community-focused year, marked by strong local leadership and continued engagement across the Ottawa, Highland Waters, and Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis councils. The region successfully held three council elections, helping ensure continued representation and support for citizens while strengthening the foundations of its chartered community councils.
Throughout the year, communities across Region 6 remained committed to preserving culture, supporting citizens, and caring for the environment. Highlights included the re-establishment of quorum within the Peterborough council, Louis Riel Day celebrations, enhancements to the Peterborough office, and ongoing conservation initiatives led by Highland Waters Métis Council. These efforts included water monitoring, protecting species at risk such as turtles and snakes, and supporting bee conservation projects in the Kingston area. Food security also remained a priority, with councils working to provide assistance and support wherever possible.
The region’s three community councils worked closely together throughout the year, participating in self-government sessions, community gatherings, workshops, and cultural events. Citizens had opportunities to take part in activities ranging from fishing workshops, gardening projects, and beading sessions to birdhouse painting, strawberry picking, apple picking, and seasonal celebrations. Region 6 also participated in events such as Great Lakes Day, Remembrance Day ceremonies, and the Summer Solstice Pow Wow in Ottawa, helping strengthen community connections and celebrate Métis culture.
Another notable achievement was the work of the Peterborough and District Wapiti Métis Council alongside Trent University and local Indigenous Education Circle representatives to develop a 10-year Métis inclusion plan.
Thank you to all of the leadership in Region 6 , Each President and council member has worked very hard to support and provide cultural activities and engagement to all of our citizens. I look forward to the next year serving our citizens in the region.
Region 7 – Georgian Bay Historic Métis Community
Region 7 continued to focus on strengthening communities through housing, advocacy, and long-term community development.
Significant progress was made on several housing initiatives, including the construction of 14 family housing units in Midland, the continuation of the Solar Panel Program, and enhancements to the Emergency Repair Program. Expanded supports for accessibility modifications, mold remediation, and snow removal helped ensure Métis citizens could access safer, healthier homes, while the Housing Stabilization Program provided assistance to 285 citizens facing housing-related challenges.
Beyond housing, Region 7 remained focused on building opportunities for citizens and strengthening community connections. Following three regional elections, attention turned toward advancing regional priorities, including plans for a community and cultural centre that would provide gathering space, services, and economic opportunities. The region also continued to advocate with federal and provincial representatives, promote Métis culture through community outreach and school visits, and support the preservation of important historical records and research materials.
As preparations begin for the 200th anniversary of the Métis migration from Drummond Island to Penetanguishene in 2028, Region 7 remains committed to celebrating its rich history while creating new opportunities for citizens and communities across the Georgian Bay Historic Métis Community.
Region 8
Region 8 continued to strengthen its commitment to self-government, community engagement, and citizen leadership. A major focus throughout the year was the development of the Region 8 Regional Implementation Agreement (RIA) Workplan, created through extensive consultation with the region’s three Community Councils. The workplan established the Region 8 Regional Self-Governance Committee, providing a collaborative forum to advance self-governance and encourage greater citizen participation in shaping the future of the Métis Nation of Ontario.
Building strong connections remained at the heart of Region 8’s work. Citizens came together through seasonal socials, wellness circles, leadership town halls, environmental cleanups, and youth engagement sessions, creating opportunities to learn, share stories, and celebrate Métis culture. The popular Gathering of the Wise Oldsters also expanded beyond its original community for the first time, welcoming Métis citizens aged 55 and older from across Region 8 to strengthen relationships, share knowledge, and honour the stories of their ancestors.
Throughout the year, Region 8 remained actively engaged with Community Councils, citizens, and MNO leadership through consultations, regional meetings, cultural celebrations, and self-government discussions. Collaboration with neighbouring regions, participation in community events, and ongoing environmental stewardship reflected the region’s belief that strong relationships, shared knowledge, and active participation are essential to building a vibrant Métis community where every citizen has a voice.
Region 9 – South West Region
This year has been a very busy year within the South West Region. Not only have we gathered together in celebration, we have worked hard to build. To build strong councils, strong leaders, and as a result a strong region.
The South West Region is home to over 4,000 citizens. Just like the roots of a 200-year-old oak tree, our roots are strong and resilient. We may be far from our historic home communities of Northwestern Ontario, Northern Lake Superior, Abitibi Inland, Huron-Superior, Georgian Bay, Mattawa/Ottawa River, or the Red River and beyond, but even the roots that are stretched this long distance will survive and play a vital role in the survival of the tree.
They feed the trunk of the tree just as much as the closer roots. We persist in our remoteness and isolation from our homelands. Just like a tree whose roots communicate with other trees, we communicate with others and let them know of our existence and our truth.
This reinforcement of our role within the overall biosphere of our tree, our Nation, has taken on several forms this year. The pillars that we focused on were:
- Being good relatives with the Nations whose lands we live on;
- Building strong connections within the region;
- Reinforcing the key roots by developing leadership;
- Building a strong root system by engaging with citizens;
- Regional identity.
I am excited for everyone to read this annual report, to see some of the hard work that everyone has put in this year to achieve our shared mission. Our mission – to build something our ancestors would be proud of. To build a strong, vibrant Nation for our children, and their children for generations to come.
Just like the 1200-year-old famed “Robin Hood Oak” of Sherwood Forest, our Nation’s tree will last for generations to come based on the roots we are growing and reinforcing today.
MNO Youth
Representing youth from across the province, the MNO Youth Council remained focused on bringing youth perspectives into MNO decision-making while strengthening connections between regional representatives, Community Council youth representatives, and the PCMNO.
A major highlight was the 9th Annual MNO Youth Leadership Conference, Connecting Our Roots, held in Sault Ste. Marie. The gathering brought Métis youth together to explore identity, culture, leadership, and storytelling. Participants took part in conversations about self-government, Métis rights and identity, harvesting and cultural practices, alongside hands-on activities and opportunities to spend time together on the land and water.
The Youth Council also continued advocating for issues that matter directly to young citizens, including health and well-being. At the 2025 AGA, youth leadership brought forward a resolution exploring MNO support for a Youth Health Summit, helping keep youth wellness part of the broader conversation within the Nation.
Through gatherings, advocacy, cultural learning, and participation in MNO governance, the Youth Council continued to make space for young Métis people to share their ideas, build relationships, and play a meaningful role in shaping the work of the MNO.
Post-Secondary
The PCMNO’s post-secondary student representative remained active throughout the year, helping ensure Métis students had a voice at gatherings, meetings, and events across the Nation. This included representing students at regional rendezvous in Region 1 and Region 5, attending the Ottawa Region Métis Council AGM, and representing the MNO as an alternate at the Métis National Council AGA in Ottawa.
Self-government and education were also important areas of involvement. The student representative participated in summits and meetings focused on the development of the MNO Constitution, took part in planning for the Youth Leadership Conference, and joined an MLIA (Métis Languages Initiative) teachers’ workshop as a panelist. They also attended the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the MNO and Yorkville University in May.
Other projects provided opportunities to share Métis experiences and perspectives in new ways, including recording a French-language radio session about their relationship with their Métis grandfather alongside members of the MLIA. They also recorded a podcast with MNOWC President Samantha Loney, scheduled for release in fall 2026.
Senators
MNO Senators continued to play an important role across the Métis Nation of Ontario, bringing their knowledge, experience, and spiritual guidance to both governance and community life.
Throughout the year, Senators participated in dozens of PCMNO meetings, Self-Government Roundtables, town halls, working groups, and committees. They also played an active role in the development of the draft Métis Constitution, helping ensure that discussions about self-government remained grounded in Métis history, stories, and lived experience.
Their work extended well beyond the boardroom. Senators participated in cultural gatherings, Youth Leadership events, Red Dress Day, language initiatives, wellness events, Veterans gatherings, community celebrations, and gatherings with Elders and Wisdom Keepers.
Some of their most meaningful contributions happened at a much more personal level. Senators visited schools and Elders, supported Indigenous education initiatives, attended funerals and celebrations of life, spoke at Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women gatherings, and provided comfort and guidance to citizens experiencing difficult moments.
Advisory Council Reports
Women’s Council
MNO Women’s Council continued to strengthen its role as a voice for Métis women across Ontario, with a focus on listening, advocacy, and creating stronger connections with citizens. Despite a leadership transition during the year, the Council continued to build its relationship with the PCMNO and provided advice ahead of Federal-Provincial-Territorial discussions with ministers responsible for the status of women.
Throughout the year, the Women’s Council created new ways to hear directly from Métis women, including the launch of the Listening to Our Women survey and two issues of the Métis Matriarch newsletter. The Council also partnered with MNO initiatives on seed distribution and health fairs, helping connect women and families with resources and supports.
Work also continued on developing a new Charter, with plans to bring a draft directly to women-identifying citizens for their input. A new partnership with the Rural Ontario Institute’s Rural Changemakers Program will provide priority spaces for Métis women aged 18–35 to develop leadership and community-building skills. Together, these efforts are helping the Women’s Council strengthen its voice within the MNO while staying grounded in the experiences and priorities of Métis women.
Two Spirit Council