First joint Swearing-In Ceremony marks new term for Community Councils
Newly elected and returning council members from the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Moon River and Georgian Bay Métis Councils participated in a first-of-its-kind swearing-in ceremony on Sunday, June 14, in Collingwood, Ontario. The event marked the beginning of a four-year term for 20 council members and provided an opportunity for learning and celebration.
During the ceremony, council members of the Moon River then Georgian Bay Metis Councils recited and signed the oath of office and received orientation packages to help prepare for their new roles. Each council member was also presented with a sash to recognize and celebrate their new positions.
In addition to celebrating the newly elected council members, the weekend also included learning sessions designed to help prepare leaders for their new responsibilities. Sessions covered updates from the Region 7 Consultation Committee, and participants heard from the Self-Government team about what citizens have shared throughout Streams 1, 2, and 3 of the Constitution and self- government engagement and consultation process.
All MNO citizens are encouraged to attend one of the upcoming What We Heard So Far sessions to learn about the feedback received to date, the self-government journey, and prepare for what comes next – the release of a future Draft Constitution for citizen review and feedback.
During the ceremony, PCMNO Acting Chair Sharon Cadeau reflected on the importance of gathering as leaders and community members:
“When we gather like this—meeting in council, sharing meals, listening, and learning together —we remind ourselves of the goals we are working toward. The strength of the Métis Nation of Ontario lies not only in our laws and agreements, but in our people.”
Congratulations to all the newly elected and returning council members of the Moon River and Georgian Bay Métis Councils, and thanks to all candidates who participated in the election process.
For a complete list of elected representatives, visit the links below: