South West Region (Region 9) Hosts Climate Change Dinner to Inspire Action and Awareness
The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) South West Region (Region 9) and the Niagara Region Métis Council (NRMC) hosted a Climate Change Dinner at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area on January 25, 2025, bringing Métis citizens and community members together to discuss their role in addressing climate change.
The evening included remarks from NRMC President Derrick Pont, South West Region Councillor Kathleen Anderson, and Métis citizen Lisa Rutherford. Each speaker discussed the importance of protecting the lands and waters, environmental education, and our collective responsibility to address climate change.
Speakers reflected that even though they were no longer living in their historic Métis community, they acknowledged their collective responsibility to the protection of lands and waters, to environmental education, and addressing climate change.
President Pont emphasized the interconnectedness of all living things, while Councillor Anderson highlighted how knowledge-sharing empowers individuals. Métis citizen Lisa Rutherford encouraged attendees to take daily actions for sustainability.
With the falls as backdrop, the event fostered discussions on how Métis traditions and values can guide conservation efforts. The gathering helped attendees consider the steps they can take—individually and collectively—to protect the environment.
As outlined in the MNO Statement of Prime Purpose, we are committed to protecting the land and waters of our homelands for future generations. The South West Region Climate Change Dinner highlighted how small actions can drive meaningful change and through community engagement we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.