History

LFDM was established in the 1990’s to uplift the voices of Métis women in Saskatchewan, honoring the resilience and strength of our ancestors. Our mission is rooted in heritage, empowerment, and community. Together, we work toward a future where every Métis woman can thrive.

Les Filles de Madelaine Secretariat Inc. (LFDM) carries forward a proud legacy rooted in the resilience, strength, and leadership of Métis women in Saskatchewan. Originally established as Métis Women of Saskatchewan Inc., the organization has been a vital voice and advocate for Métis women’s rights, culture, and community development for decades.

Named in honour of Madelaine Dumont, a revered Métis matriarch known for her contributions to Métis history, LFDMSI symbolizes the enduring spirit and determination of Métis women. Over the years, we have evolved to address the changing needs of our communities, advocating for equality, preserving Métis traditions, and fostering opportunities for growth and empowerment.

In 2013, the organization rebranded as Les Filles de Madelaine Secretariat Inc. to reflect a renewed commitment to our mission while honouring our heritage. This rebrand marked a new chapter in our journey, one that is focused on strengthening the voices of Métis women, advancing their socio-economic well-being, and ensuring their rightful place in Saskatchewan’s cultural and political landscape.

Today, LFDM continues to serve as a cornerstone for Métis women in Saskatchewan, guided by our history and inspired by the potential of future generations. Together, we celebrate the past, embrace the present, and build a brighter future for Métis women and their communities.

Tammy Mah

A Trailblazer for Métis Women, a Champion for Community, and a Legacy of Strength

1960 – 2022

The late Tammy Mah, who served as our President until her passing in November 2022, played a pivotal role in leading the organization with dedication and vision. Tammy was a tireless advocate for Métis women and a champion for building stronger, more inclusive communities. Her legacy continues to inspire the work we do today, and her contributions will always be remembered as a cornerstone of our history.

The Secretariat/Collective provides and promotes:

  • Leadership, which is inclusive, collaborative, respects non-traditional ways of leading

  • Diversity and includes the most marginalized voices by sharing knowledge and empowering those around them

Les Filles de Madelaine Secretariat Inc. operates in a culturally, gender safe, and relevant manner to focus on topics such as:

  • Métis Identity

  • Status

  • Ageism

  • Socio-economic circumstance

  • Sexual/Gender Identity

Through upholding Human Rights, Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and UNDRIP by aggressively challenging all forms of inequity, inequality, and intolerance.

  • Les Filles de Madelaine Secretariat Inc. (LFDM) is a representative collective of Métis women in Saskatchewan committed to advancing equity and equality for all Métis women, girls, and gender-nonconforming individuals.

    LFDM provide support and leadership opportunities while amplifying marginalized voices and addressing issues such as identity, socio-economic disparities, and human rights.

    The collective operates in a culturally and gender-safe environment and opposes all forms of inequity and intolerance.

  • Les Filles de Madelaine represent Métis women in Saskatchewan, prioritizing inclusivity and addressing issues faced by Métis women and gender diversity.

    LFDM advocates for Métis women at a national (through Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak / Women of the Métis Nation) and a provincial level and are developing a Métis Women Act to accommodate gender diversity in Saskatchewan's Métis homelands.

LFDM Legacy Sash

Honouring the Legacy Métis Sash Designed by Tammy Mah

Les Filles de Madelaine proudly recognizes the LFDM Legacy Sash as a symbol of strength, resilience, and identity. Designed by the late Tammy Mah, former President of LFDMSI, this sash carried deep meaning through its carefully chosen colours:

  • Red for strength and courage.

  • Black for resilience and the struggles overcome.

  • White for hope and peace.

  • Light pink for the love and kinship shared among Métis women.

As we retire this cherished sash, we honour Tammy Mah’s vision and dedication to uplifting Métis women across Saskatchewan. You may still see this beloved sash at gatherings where Métis Women of Saskatchewan are present. Though this sash is no longer in production, its legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the path paved by those who came before us. Maarsii, Tammy, for your unwavering leadership and love for the community. Your spirit lives on in every thread.

LFDM New Era Sash

Introducing the New Era Métis Sash by Les Filles de Madelaine

Launched in March 2025, the New Era Métis Sash by LFDM is a bold symbol of Métis women’s resilience, strength, and evolution. Woven with black, white, burgundy, and neon pink, this L'Assomption style sash represents the past, present, and future of Métis identity.

  • Black for the strength and perseverance of Métis women.

  • White for balance, healing, and hope.

  • Burgundy for the deep roots of Métis culture and tradition and bloodline that connects generations.

  • Neon Pink for the vibrant, unstoppable spirit of Métis women today.

This sash marks a new chapter—one that honours tradition while embracing the power of contemporary Métis identity. It’s more than a sash; it’s a movement.

LFDM 2SLGBTIQA+ Pride Sash

The 2SLGBTIQA+ Pride Métis Sash, launched in October 2019 by Les Filles de Madelaine Secretariat Inc. (LFDM), is a powerful symbol of inclusion, identity, and pride within the Métis Nation. Designed and created in collaboration with Jocelyn Ormerod, a Two-Spirit Métis Woman, the L'Assomption style sash weaves together Métis heritage with the vibrant colors of the six-stripe Pride flag created by artist Gilbert Baker:

  • Red for Life

  • Orange for Healing

  • Yellow for Sunlight

  • Green for Nature

  • Blue for Harmony

  • Violet for Spirit

This sash stands as a testament to LFDM’s commitment to representation, advocacy, and the recognition of Two-Spirit and LGBTIQA+ identities in Métis culture.

Publications

  • Honouring Louis Riel in Meadow Lake

    April 18, 2024

    On the eve of Riel Day, 150 guests gathered at the Meadow Lake Civic Centre to honour the Métis leader’s sacrifices and remember how far Métis people have come.

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  • Métisfest planned for Melfort

    Nov 08, 2023

    An upcoming Nov. 19 event aims to share the unique culture and traditions of the Métis people of the Melfort area. The Métis have long called the area home.

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  • Research Connections, Truth & Action Grant Announcement

    Feb 14, 2023

    Looking Back to Plan Ahead: Two-Way Knowledge Sharing in Partnered Communities

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  • Métis Women Feeding the Hungry

    April 13, 2020

    Fifty-six families and elders struggling to make ends meet in Prince Albert have food in their bellies thanks to the work of the provincial and local chapters of the Métis Women’s Association, Les Filles de Madeleine.

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