What happened at PCMNO – April 27, 2026
Métis leaders from across Ontario met on April 27 for a regular meeting of the Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO), focusing on community needs, future gatherings, Métis businesses, and major work now underway across the MNO.
The meeting opened with a prayer from Senator Donna Grenier. President Margaret Froh welcomed members and thanked them for the time and leadership they continue to bring to Métis citizens and communities across Ontario.
President’s Update
President Froh began by acknowledging the flooding still affecting many communities. For some families, spring has brought damage, stress, and uncertainty. She said the MNO’s thoughts are with those families and communities as they continue to respond and recover.
She also praised the strong work happening across the province. Community councils and advisory councils have been busy hosting Annual General Meetings and local events, creating space for citizens to come together.
Health work was also a focus. President Froh shared that she recently attended a Love Yourself First event in Ottawa and noted that the program is already making a real difference, with several citizens receiving early cancer diagnoses.
MNO’s health work is also reaching beyond Ontario. Provincial Secretary Sharon Cadeau recently travelled to New Zealand with MNO Health and Wellbeing staff to present at an international cancer conference. They shared the MNO’s approach to cancer care and research and helped bring Métis-led health work into a broader global conversation.
President Froh also spoke about progress in building self-government. She pointed to the Powley Institute as a clear example, noting that the building is being prepared and board members have now been appointed. The Institute is beginning to take shape as an important part of the MNO’s future.
She provided an update on Bill C-21, federal legislation that would implement a modern treaty between Canada and the Manitoba Métis Federation. She reaffirmed the MNO’s support for Métis self-government and modern Métis treaties, noting that the MNO is advancing its own path through its agreements, constitution work, and ongoing negotiations with Canada. She also stressed the need for clear language in the bill so the rights, interests, and future of Métis communities and citizens in Ontario are respected.
Annual General Assembly Planning
Planning is moving ahead for the upcoming Annual General Assemblies. After reviewing several proposals from Métis communities in Ontario, PCMNO selected the South West Region to host the 2027 AGA. The Historic Georgian Bay Region was selected to host the 2028 AGA, which will coincide with the 200th anniversary of the relocation to Drummond Island.
Members also received an update on the 2026 AGA in Thunder Bay. Final details are being worked through, including a site visit in May. The AGA will be held at Fort William Historical Park, with accommodations at the Valhalla Hotel. Plans include a vendor fair, art exhibits, and gathering and connecting spaces. Work is also underway with the Métis Youth Council to support the Youth Leadership Conference alongside the AGA.
Recognizing Métis Businesses
PCMNO approved a new Métis Business Recognition Framework to recognize Métis-owned and Métis-affiliated businesses. This work responds to direction from the 2025 Annual General Assembly and supports long-term economic growth for Métis citizens and communities.
The framework introduces three types of recognition: Verified Métis Business, Métis Family Business, and Métis Affiliated Business. These categories reflect different ways businesses are connected to Métis citizens and communities and will help create clearer pathways to opportunities, including procurement and contracting.
MNOCC Update
President Froh also provided an update on the Métis Nation of Ontario Cultural Commission (MNOCC) and the work underway to strengthen its role. MNOCC has updated its by-laws to align with current non-profit requirements, helping ensure a strong and stable foundation moving forward.
Work is also underway to expand its role, including the development of a land trust. This includes registering with Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program, which would allow land to be donated and protected for long-term environmental and community benefit. MNOCC has already acquired some parcels of land and is developing a more formal fundraising approach. A call for new board members is expected, with a focus on building a skilled and active board to support this next phase of work.
Powley Institute Progress
PCMNO received an update on the continued development of the Powley Institute, where work is steadily moving forward. Recent upgrades to the building include electrical improvements and the installation of electric vehicle charging stations. Revenue from these chargers will help support the Institute’s operations. More work is still needed, including accessibility upgrades and zoning approvals. At the same time, the space is already being used for meetings, marking an important step forward. To keep that momentum going, PCMNO approved up to $750,000 to support repairs and upgrades, while additional funding sources are being explored.
Wrap Up
The April 27 PCMNO meeting showed progress across several areas, including supporting communities and planning major gatherings, strengthening economic opportunities, and building key institutions. Together, this work continues to focus on supporting Métis citizens today while building a stronger foundation for the future.