MNO News 45: President’s Message (June 2026)

Dear Citizens,

As we move into the busiest part of summer, there is a growing sense of excitement in our communities. Our citizens are gathering for local events, spending time with family, and finding opportunities to reconnect with one another and with the land and water.

It is also a time when many of us begin looking ahead to one of the most important events on our calendar: the Métis Nation of Ontario Annual General Assembly. This year’s AGA will take place from August 14 to 16 in Thunder Bay, and I encourage every citizen who is able to register and attend. The AGA is an opportunity to conduct the business of our government, to celebrate our culture, reconnect with friends, and learn more about the work being done across the MNO.

June is a special time in Métis communities. National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day give us an opportunity to celebrate who we are, where we come from, and the people who helped build the communities we enjoy today. It is also a chance to share our stories with the next generation and make sure they understand the strength and resilience of Métis people.

June is also Pride Month. Our communities are strongest when everyone feels welcome and respected. I want to recognize the Two-Spirit, LGBTQIA+, and gender-diverse citizens who contribute so much to our communities and help make them vibrant, caring places to live.

This has been a busy spring for Métis youth and learners. A new partnership with Yorkville University will help expand post-secondary education opportunities for citizens, while nominations are open for the 2026 Youth Leadership Awards. I was also glad to see Métis students come together through the Infinite Reach March Break Camp, where they built leadership skills, took part in cultural activities, and made new connections.

This month, we unveiled plans to establish a new child care centre in Penetanguishene, with expansion to additional communities in the near future. These spaces will help support parents and caregivers while providing children with opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with their culture from an early age. When we invest in children and families, we are investing in the future of our communities.

I also want to take a moment to recognize MNO Chair Hank Rowlinson, who has resigned from his role for health reasons after many years of service. On behalf of the MNO, I want to extend a sincere thank you to Hank for his dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving citizens over the years. Public service requires enormous time and energy, and his contributions have helped strengthen our government and support our communities. We wish him all the very best in the future.

As always, I encourage you to take some time to read through the rest of this newsletter and explore the many programs, events, and opportunities available to citizens and their families.

Thank you to all our citizens. I wish you and your families a wonderful start to the summer season.

Margaret Froh
President, Métis Nation of Ontario