MNO: AGA 2019

Every year, the citizens of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) hold our Annual General Assembly (AGA) where we gather together to conduct the business of the MNO, to celebrate our rich history, culture and way of life, pass on traditions to younger generations and future leaders and share our stories.

As the home of the Supreme Court of Canada’s landmark decision on Métis rights in R. v. Powley, the Sault Ste. Marie region holds a special historical significance, not just for the Métis Nation in Ontario, but for Métis across Canada. As the MNO continues to advance the Statement of Prime Purpose and longstanding mandate of rights, self-determination and self-government It is difficult to imagine the political landscape for today’s Métis without the contributions of the Sault Ste. Marie Métis community. This celebrated site is considered a “hidden gem” in Ontario, offering scenic views, vast wilderness and friendly locals eager to introduce you to the “Soo”.

The MNO will coordinate accommodations and travel for MNO citizens designated to attend, which will include: Community Council Presidents; Senators; and Youth represenatives, as well as the members of the MNO Youth Council, MNO Veterans’ Council, MNO Women’s Councils and Captians of the Hunt. Designated citizens will be contacted by the MNO directly for registration purposes.

Every year, the citizens of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) hold our Annual General Assembly (AGA) where we gather together to conduct the business of the MNO, to celebrate our rich history, culture and way of life, pass on traditions to younger generations and future leaders and share our stories.

As the home of the Supreme Court of Canada’s landmark decision on Métis rights in R. v. Powley, the Sault Ste. Marie region holds a special historical significance, not just for the Métis Nation in Ontario, but for Métis across Canada. As the MNO continues to advance the Statement of Prime Purpose and longstanding mandate of rights, self-determination and self-government it is difficult to imagine the political landscape for today’s Métis without the contributions of the Sault Ste. Marie Métis community. This celebrated site is considered a “hidden gem” in Ontario, offering scenic views, vast wilderness and friendly locals eager to introduce you to the “Soo”.

The MNO will coordinate accommodations and travel for MNO citizens designated to attend, which will include: Community Council Presidents; Senators; and Youth representatives, as well as the members of the MNO Youth Council, MNO Veterans’ Council, MNO Womens’ Council and Captains of the Hunt. Designated citizens will be contacted by the MNO directly for registration purposes.

AGA IS OPEN TO ALL CITIZENS

The MNO AGA is open to all citizens, whether or not they have been designated by a local Community Council to attend. Citizens are encouraged to complete the online registration in advance so that we have an idea of numbers of citizens to expect for meals, meeting space, etc. The MNO also encourages citizens who are travelling to Sault Ste. Marie to book their accommodations (hotel or camping) as soon as possible, as facilities are limited and the AGA is taking place at the height of the tourist season.

The venue for the AGA will be the Quattro Hotel, located in uptown Sault Ste. Marie, steps away from downtown attractions. For those interested in camping options, please email aga2019@metisnation.org and information on available camping sites will be emailed to you.

VOYAGEUR CANOE ARRIVAL

As has been the MNO’s tradition, prior to the start of the AGA, delegates will gather to cheer on the arrival of Voyageur canoes, which will be paddled by MNO leadership, special guests and other dignitaries. This year, the canoes arrive on Thursday, August 22 at approximately 6:30 p.m., at Bellevue Park on the north shore of the St. Mary’s River.

AGA BUSINESS MEETINGS

The AGA 2019 will begin its business agenda on Friday, August 23, 2019 at 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The business agenda for Saturday August 24, 2019 will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 and on Sunday, August 25, 2019 from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 12:00 p.m.

TRADE SHOW, CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES AND MORE

A trade show will be held at the Quattro Hotel, starting on Friday, August 23, 2019 through to the end of the AGA on Sunday, August 25, 2019. Adult-supervised children’s activities will be available for the delegates’ children throughout the AGA. As well, a special “optional” excursion to Drummond Island, Michigan, USA has been planned for Monday, August 26, 2019. Citizens intending to participate in this optional event should indicate that when completing their online registration for the AGA 2019. The optional excursion will be at the cost of the citizens attending.

More details on these activities and announcements about even more activities will be posted on the MNO website as the 2019 AGA approaches.

If you have any questions about the AGA, please email aga2019@metisnation.org.

NT5