On behalf of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, of Elder Rebecca Ross of Pimicikamak Cree Nation.
Her passing is a great loss, and her legacy as a language warrior, educator, and guardian of culture and language will forever be remembered.
Elder Rebecca’s dedication to promoting and preserving the Cree language has left an indelible mark on countless lives, and her contributions to education for First Nation children and youth will continue to inspire generations to come.
We wish you well on your final journey home.With great sadness, we offer condolences to the family, friends, and community of Elder Rebecca Ross.
Elder Rebecca was a Muskego/Swampy Iskwew from the Pimicikamak Cree Nation. She was a language warrior, who was fluent in the Cree language and promoted its use whenever she could. She was a teacher and a guardian of culture and language. From fish camps to trap lines, from day school to residential school, she navigated life’s challenges with grace and strength.
A residential school survivor, she went on to graduate from Brandon University with a Bachelor of Arts (Native Studies/Religion) in 1982 and earned a Bachelor of Education in 1983. Rebecca dedicated over 40 years to better education for First Nation children and youth. Rebecca was instrumental in the development of the Resource Centre. In January 2021, she retired from Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre where she had worked since 2012.
During this difficult time, our hearts go out to Rebecca’s daughter and the three grandchildren that made her so proud. We would also like to express our gratitude to AMC Grand Chief Cathy Merrick for the condolences sent to the Resource Centre. The management and staff of the Resource Centre wish Elder Rebecca all the best in her final journey.
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PURSUIT OF JUSTICE 🦅
This morning, Grand Chief Cathy Merrick attended a press conference hosted by the RCMP, with the support of Northlands Denesuline First Nations, and disclosed recent developments in the investigation of the tragic deaths of Brent Denechezhe and Leona Tssessaze on September 9, 2021, in Northlands Denesuline First Nation, which were determined to be homicides.
We say prayers in solidarity with those who are still grieving the loss of Brent and Leona, and we extend our gratitude to the investigators for their unwavering dedication to seeking justice and providing answers for the families and community.
AMC Grand Chief Cathy Merrick joined other First Nation Leaders in solidarity with the grieving families and the entire Northlands Dene Nation – Grand Chief Walter Wastesicoot of KTC, George Neepin of KTC, Minister of Families Nahanni Fontaine, and Justice Minister Matt Wiebe.
Family representatives who spoke at today’s announcement were Leona’s father Dave, and representing the mothers of the victims, Agnes Dantouze and Oliver Veuillot. Also in attendance were Northlands Denesuline First Nation’s Chief Simon Denechezhe, Councillor Modest Antsanen, and Councillor Augustine Tssessanze.
Despite the belief of investigators that no one else was involved in the shooting, they are continuing to urge anyone with information to come forward by contacting the tip line at 431-489-8112.
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It’s National Immunization Awareness Week!
Take this opportunity to ensure you’re up to date on the vaccines you need. This annual awareness week, held in the last week of April, emphasizes the importance of immunization. Join in by raising awareness and promoting opportunities for vaccination in your community.
Immunizations are vital for safeguarding the health and well-being of First Nations. They help alleviate the burden of infectious diseases and promote health equity. Throughout history, First Nations have suffered disproportionately from infectious diseases introduced during initial contact with European settlers. Diseases like smallpox, measles, and influenza wreaked havoc on our nations, causing significant population declines. Even today, many First Nations experience inadequate healthcare access for essentials such as lifesaving vaccinations and immunizations. Immunization programs play a key role in improving health equity by ensuring that individuals from First Nations have access to preventive healthcare, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.
Learn more about how the measles vaccine protects you and your family: ow.ly/zMa950Rn5nn
COVID-19 vaccines will be widely available to all First Nations in Manitoba until April 30. After that, until fall immunizations begin, individuals seeking a dose may need to consult their healthcare provider. Find out more at: bit.ly/3U49R94
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