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Tag: Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs

  • Manitoba NDP MLA Amanda Lathlin, First First Nations Woman Elected to Province’s Legislature, Dies at 49

    Manitoba NDP MLA Amanda Lathlin, First First Nations Woman Elected to Province’s Legislature, Dies at 49

    Amanda Lathlin, a member of Manitoba’s New Democratic Party caucus and the first First Nations woman elected to the province’s legislature, has died at the age of 49.

    The Manitoba NDP Caucus confirmed in a statement on Saturday that Lathlin, who represented the northern riding of The Pas—Kameesak, passed away after taking a leave of absence last month due to health issues. No cause of death was provided.

    Lathlin made history in 2015 when she became the first First Nations woman elected to Manitoba’s legislature. Before entering provincial politics, she served as a band councillor for Opaskwayak Cree Nation and was widely recognized for her advocacy on issues affecting northern and Indigenous communities.

    During her time in office, Lathlin helped advance legislation that extended paid leave for mothers recovering from miscarriages and pushed for improved access to sexual assault care in northern Manitoba.

    Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew paid tribute to Lathlin on social media, describing her as a close friend and a trailblazer who helped open the door for more Indigenous women to serve in the legislature. Kinew said her influence also played a role in his own path to becoming premier.

    “Amanda and I had a relationship like no other. I had her back through the many challenges she faced in the last few years. And she kept speaking to me in a way that few people do these days: we laughed, we argued, and sometimes she’d just tell me ‘awas!’” Kinew wrote.

    “Through these ups and downs she became a sister. The last time I spoke to her she made fun of me for wearing a suit to visit her in the hospital.”

    Lathlin came from a family with a long history in politics. Her father, Oscar Lathlin, served as an NDP cabinet minister in the government of former Manitoba premier Gary Doer.

    In 2024, after a fire destroyed the historic Lido Theatre in The Pas, Lathlin spoke in the legislature about the venue’s significance to the community. She described it as the “beating heart of our community,” while also acknowledging its painful history of segregation, when Indigenous families were forced to sit at the back while white families occupied the front.

    “It was a great triumph when these racist laws and practices were repealed, and we could finally claim the Lido as our own space,” she said at the time.

    Kinew remembered Lathlin as a dedicated grassroots politician who loved connecting with the people she represented.

    “The first time I visited Trappers’ Fest in The Pas she blew me away by greeting every single person we met by their first name,” he said.

    The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs also offered condolences, describing Lathlin as “a trailblazer, a leader, and a strong voice for her people.”

    “Rest in power, Amanda. Your voice, your courage, and your legacy will continue to guide our Nations,” the organization said in a statement.

  • Federal Cabinet Minister and Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Criticize Charles Adler’s Comments

    Federal Cabinet Minister and Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Criticize Charles Adler’s Comments

    Overview:

    Event: Federal Cabinet Minister and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs have publicly criticized recent comments made by Senator Charles Adler, sparking a significant political and social debate.

    Story: Charles Adler, a new Senator, made remarks that were perceived as controversial and offensive by several Indigenous leaders and political figures. The comments, which touched on sensitive issues related to Indigenous rights and representation, have led to a strong backlash, particularly from the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and a federal cabinet minister who spoke out against Adler’s statements.

    Key Points:

    Criticism from Indigenous Leaders: The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs has condemned Adler’s comments, describing them as harmful and insensitive to the ongoing struggles of Indigenous communities. The Chiefs emphasized the need for greater respect and understanding in discussions about Indigenous issues.

    Political Fallout: A federal cabinet minister also criticized Adler’s remarks, calling them divisive and out of touch with the government’s commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous rights. The minister highlighted the importance of fostering positive relations and addressing historical injustices.

    Public and Media Response:

    Public Outcry: The comments have sparked widespread criticism from the public, with many calling for an apology or further action to address the concerns raised by Indigenous leaders. Social media has amplified these calls, with many users expressing solidarity with the Indigenous community.

    Media Coverage: The incident has garnered significant media attention, with analysis focusing on the broader implications for Indigenous relations in Canada. Commentators are also discussing the potential impact on Adler’s political career and the response from the federal government.

    Cultural and Political Significance:

    Indigenous Rights: The backlash against Adler’s comments underscores the sensitivity of Indigenous rights issues in Canada. It also highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving true reconciliation and the need for respectful dialogue.

    Political Repercussions: This controversy could have political ramifications, particularly if it leads to further criticism of the government’s approach to Indigenous issues. The incident may also influence public perceptions of the Senate and its role in representing diverse voices.

    Outcome:

    Calls for Accountability: There are growing calls for Adler to be held accountable for his remarks, either through a formal apology or other measures. Some have suggested that this could lead to a broader discussion on the responsibilities of Senators and the need for greater cultural sensitivity.

    Ongoing Debate: The incident is likely to fuel ongoing debates about Indigenous rights, representation, and the role of public figures in shaping these discussions. It may also prompt further scrutiny of the Senate and its ability to reflect the values and priorities of all Canadians.

    SOURCE: THE GLOBE AND MAIL