MNO Participates in the 2025 Indigenous Membership and Citizenship Conference in Saskatchewan
The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) joined Indigenous leaders, scholars, and post-secondary institutions in Saskatoon for a national conference focused on Indigenous membership and citizenship policies in education. Held from May 7 to 9, 2025, the Indigenous Membership and Citizenship Conference explored the creation, implementation, and impact of verification processes within post-secondary institutions.
“This event is a dialogue around protecting Indigenous spaces by creating processes and policies that require citizenship and membership checks,” says Angela Jaime, the University of Saskatchewan’s Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement. “A lack of policy or process for membership checks may lead to fraudulent claims of membership.”
Attendees heard from speakers who emphasized the importance of Indigenous voices in shaping membership and citizenship processes. A keynote address by Natan Obed, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, highlighted his work advancing national strategies on suicide prevention, food security, climate change and other issues. Panel discussions featured knowledge holders speaking on governance, nation-building, Indigenous sovereignty, and data security.
The final day of the conference focused on workshops that offered a space to share best practices and explore challenges in developing and implementing Indigenous membership policies. Participants left with practical tools and insights to support policy development in their own organizations and institutions.
“It was an honour to attend on behalf of the MNO,” said PCMNO Interim Chair Sharon Cadeau. “Participating in this national dialogue reinforces our commitment to protecting Métis identity, ensuring accountability in citizenship, and asserting our right to self-governance. The insights gained will support the MNO’s ongoing work to strengthen our citizenship policies and advocate for Métis self-determination in partnership with academic institutions and beyond.”