MNO leaders join national Métis health policy forum

Press Release

March 11, 2026

Representatives from the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) gathered in Ottawa this week with Métis leaders, health professionals, researchers, Elders, and youth from across the country for the 2026 National Métis Health Policy Forum.
The two-day forum, hosted by the Métis National Council and titled Honouring Métis Health through Trauma-Informed and Culturally Safe Care: Strengthening Bundles for the Health Workforce, highlighted Métis-led approaches to wellness grounded in culture, community, and self-determination.

Throughout the event, MNO staff and citizens shared both professional expertise and personal experience in the field of Métis health.

On Day 1, Director of Community Wellbeing Emily Paterson and Director of Healing and Wellness Shelley Cripps delivered a keynote presentation outlining MNO health programs, with a focus on trauma-informed and culturally safe care.
MNO President Margaret Froh also delivered leadership remarks, emphasizing the importance of Métis governments shaping health systems that reflect the lived experiences and priorities of their citizens, and highlighting ongoing collaboration with the MNO’s sister government in Alberta.

MNO staff also contributed to breakout sessions focused on strengthening the Métis health workforce.
Ryah Heavens and Aman Pabla from the MNO’s Healing and Wellness Branch presented on building partnerships across sectors to support culturally safe service delivery. Dr. Sarah Edwards and MNO citizen and researcher Abby Simms participated in discussions on decolonizing research and ethical storytelling. MNO citizen and land-based educator Connor McNamara highlighted land-based learning as a holistic wellness practice rooted in Métis culture and connection to the land.

Youth leadership was also represented, with Evan Accettola of the MNO Youth Council participating in a national fireside chat on Métis youth leadership in wellness, moderated by fellow MNO Youth Council member Bennett Woods.

Across keynote sessions and workshops, participants explored trauma-informed care, cultural safety and humility standards, land-based healing, traditional knowledge, and the role of language in wellness.

The forum closed with reflections on self-care and the importance of supporting those who care for others — a reminder that strengthening our “bundles” means strengthening relationships, knowledge, and community capacity.

The Métis Nation of Ontario remains committed to advancing holistic, culturally grounded health programs and ensuring Métis voices continue to shape health policy and practice at the national level.

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