MNO News 38: President’s Message (November 2025)
Dear Citizens,
November is truly a month of remembrance. As we turn the calendar and prepare to mark Louis Riel Day, I’ve been reflecting on the many ways we honour our shared history and those who have fought for our rights and freedoms.
Just days ago, we observed National Indigenous Veterans Day (November 8) and Remembrance Day (November 11)—days to remember the bravery and sacrifice of Métis, First Nations, and Inuit veterans, and all who have served both in war and times of peace. Their courage reminds us that the fight for justice, for freedom, and for democracy is not over, and that we must always be prepared to fight to preserve our hard fought gains.
On November 16, we will gather once again to remember Louis Riel, whose leadership, vision, and sacrifice continue to inspire us some 140 years later as we fight to advance and protect Métis rights today. We remember his vision for a fair and self-determined Métis people, and we reflect on the generations who have carried that vision forward. I hope you’ll take part in community events, wear your sash with pride, and take a moment to think about what being Métis means to you. Louis Riel’s legacy lives on in every citizen who continues the struggle to uphold our rights, languages, culture, and governance.
As we move deeper into fall and feel the air turn colder (and the snow flying as it has been this week), I’ve been thinking about what a meaningful month October was across our Métis communities. We celebrated Women’s History Month, and it made me think about the incredible Métis women who have shaped our lives in ways both big and small. You can be inspired by Métis women of the past by visiting OntarioMetisFacts.com.
On October 4, many of us paused for the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+). It is a difficult and solemn day that reminds us of those still missing, the families still grieving, and the responsibility we all share to create a world where everyone is safe and valued. This work continues every day through the leadership of our Women’s Council and Two-Spirit+ Interim Council, and through the deep commitment of those across the MNO who support this important work.
The fall season offers us so many opportunities to get out on the land. I want to share a highlight from the Huron-Superior Regional Métis Community where Citizens came together with the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority and REGEN for a community tree planting to help prevent erosion. By the end of the day, everyone’s hands were muddy, and the hillside was home to 150 new trees, and this motivated group of volunteers even tackled a clean-up of the surrounding area. One of many beautiful examples across the MNO of Métis values in action!
In October, we gathered for a Citizen Town Hall, where we shared updates and heard directly from citizens. I spoke about the two new health programs that are already helping families with things like dental care, prescriptions, and online appointments with licensed health professionals. We also discussed the upcoming Child Welfare Survey, which will give us a clearer picture of how Métis families are being affected by the child welfare system and what supports will make the biggest difference.
The month also brought something new. Our Adult Wellness Connection launched with its first session on mental wellness and balance. It was a simple reminder that self-care isn’t selfish. When we take time to look after our own health, we’re stronger for our families and our communities.
This is also the time of year when flu and COVID tend to make the rounds, so please take good care of yourselves. Get plenty of rest, stay connected to the people who lift you up, and keep your vaccinations up to date. A little care and caution now can go a long way in keeping our families and communities healthy through the winter. Taking care of ourselves is one of the best ways we can take care of each other.
I’ve been energized by the work happening through the Self-Government Virtual Roundtables.Citizens are coming together to share ideas about what a future Métis constitution could look like and how we want to shape our government for the generations ahead. These conversations are about more than laws or governance. They’re about who we are and how we want to carry our government forward. If you haven’t joined a session yet, I encourage you to take part as your voice truly matters in shaping our future together. There are several more scheduled for this month.
As we move toward winter, I want to thank you for everything you do to keep our communities strong. Whether you planted trees, joined a town hall, or simply helped a neighbour, it all adds up. Each act of kindness and each effort to stay connected strengthens us.
Self-government isn’t something far off in the distance. It’s happening here and now, in the programs we build, the choices we make, and the way we care for one another.
Maarsii, merci, thank you for walking this path together, with pride and hope.
Margaret Froh
President, Métis Nation of Ontario