The Passing of Grand Chief Cathy Merrick

Flags throughout the division were at half-mast yesterday in memory of Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cathy Merrick, as she lay in state at the Manitoba legislative building. 

Merrick died suddenly on Friday, Sept. 6, while speaking to reporters outside the provincial law courts building. Her family and community gave permission for her to lie in state to allow the public to pay their respects, as many would be unable to attend her funeral in Pimicikamâk, 520 km north of Winnipeg. 

Merrick has been remembered by her community, colleagues, and others as a trailblazing leader, tireless advocate for the 63 First Nations she served, and prominent voice in calling for attention to the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Hundreds gathered at a candlelight vigil held in her honour outside the law courts building Tuesday night.

Members of the public can sign a book of condolences at the base of the grand staircase in the legislative building throughout the week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs will have tributes to honour Merrick and her legacy throughout the week, an AMC Facebook post said.