(September 7, 2024 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), National Chief Cindy Woodhouse-Nepinak expressed deep shock and sorrow on the sudden and tragic passing of Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) Grand Chief Cathy Merrick.
“The AFN Executive Committee expresses our deep sadness and our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Grand Chief Cathy Merrick and to all the First Nations she represented as Grand Chief,” said National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “Grand Chief Cathy Merrick first assumed the leadership of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs at a critical time. She honoured the headdress bestowed on her through her fearless advocacy and tireless work. She stood as a role model for all First Nations leadership.
We are all proud of her work mobilizing action on the health priorities of First Nations in all Treaty territories in Manitoba. We deeply admired her determined advocacy as she pressed for the recovery of the murdered women in the landfill and to support their families. We send love and prayers to her family, her friends, and her First Nation, and to all her colleagues at the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. Pa Ma Pii Kitchi Ogima Kwe.”
AFN Manitoba Regional Chief Willie Moore said, “The circumstances of the Grand Chief’s passing are beyond tragic. We can best honour her life’s work by carrying her aspirations and vision forward. Grand Chief Merrick was a true trailblazer, and we will deeply miss her.”
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern. Follow AFN on X @AFN_Updates.
Contact information:
Genna Benson
Director, Communications
Assembly of First Nations
[email protected]
(604) 340-3117
Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
[email protected]
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)