The OPSEU/SEFPO Indigenous Circle invites you to submit your application for the 2023 Indigenous Conference! We welcome all members who desire to bear witness to the essential role of culture in ensuring Indigenous communities not only survive, but also thrive.
The Conference theme is “Discovering the Métis: The People of the Sash.” The goal is to inspire and equip OPSEU/SEFPO members to partner and work with Indigenous communities during this time of reconciliation. The Conference is being planned with citizens of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO). Participants will be equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively network with Métis members within and beyond OPSEU/SEFPO on various projects and campaigns.
Participants will be selected by the Indigenous Circle with assistance from the Member Equity Unit. The selection process seeks to achieve a diverse group of attendees representative of Indigenous and other equity groups within our membership. Confirmation will be issued to the selected participants in May.
Expenses will be reimbursed as per OPSEU/SEFPO policy.
Do not miss this opportunity to network, learn, share experiences, and have some fun. Please submit your completed application no later than 5 pm, Monday, April 16, 2023. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
“Discovering the Métis: The People of the Sash”
Tentative Conference Agenda
Friday June 16, 2023
5:30 to 7:00 PM – Registration (dinner on your own)
7:00 to 9:00 PM – Opening Ceremony
Opening Remarks from the OPSEU/SEFPO President and First Vice-President/Treasurer
Presentation from the Métis Nation of Ontario Métis
Traditional Music and Dancing
Saturday June 17, 2023
7:30 to 9:00 AM – Breakfast (provided)
9:00 to 10:30 AM – Métis History and Stories
10:30 to 10:45 AM – Break (time to visit vendors)
10:45 to 12:15 PM – *Workshop I
12:15 to 1:30 PM – Lunch (provided)
1:30 to 2:45 PM – *Workshop II
2:45 to 3:00 PM – Break (time to visit vendors)
3:00 to 4:15 PM – *Workshop III
4:15 to 5:00 PM – Break (time to visit vendors)
5:00 to 7:00 PM – Traditional Dinner (provided)
7:00 to 9:00 PM – Fiddling and Jigging with Métis
Sunday June 18, 2023
7:30 to 9:00 AM – Breakfast (provided)
9:00 to 10:15 AM – *Workshop IV
10:15 to 10:30 AM – Break
10:30 to 11:30 AM – Sharing Circles
11:30 to Noon – Closing Ceremony
Noon – Depart (box lunch provided)
*Workshops include Finger weaving, Michif language, Beading and Métis roots
Conference application form
All requests must be received no later than 5 pm, Monday, April 16, 2023