‘A Grand Chief that was there for her people’: Leaders speak after AMC Grand Chief Cathy Merrick’s passing

Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cathy Merrick has died.

Merrick collapsed outside of the Law Courts building in Winnipeg Friday morning while speaking with reporters about the not guilty verdict of a corrections officer in the death of a First Nations man.

“Safety, justice and equity for First Nation people under the law,” she said. “We demand immediate accountability and concrete actions to overhaul the justice system.”

Her passing was confirmed after she was taken to hospital.

Merrick was the former chief of Pimicikamak Cree Nation and was re-elected to a second term in July.

“Grand Chief Merrick’s presence, both powerful and kind, left a lasting impact on those privileged to know and work alongside her,” the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) said in a statement Friday evening.

AMC cited Merrick’s work advocating for a landfill search for the remains of First Nations women, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people and equitable healthcare for First Nations communities as examples of her “remarkable” leadership, “whose voice and tireless advocacy touched countless lives.”

Within hours of her passing, many leaders in Manitoba expressed their condolences.

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew saying, “Lisa and I have known Cathy for years – as a grand chief, First Nations leader, sundancer and kookum. She was the first woman to be elected as grand chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs – something that made so many Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in our province proud.”

Adding, “She approached her work with joy, compassion, thoughtfulness and a spirituality that was grounded in the belief that we are all equal in the eyes of the Creator and that we all deserve to live a good life.”

Kinew announced flags outside the Legislative Building have been lowered to half-mast in recognition of the Grand Chief.

“I will miss her wise counsel, her drive to get things done and most of all – her hugs,” said Kinew. “No matter how challenging or difficult any political conversation was, Cathy Merrick always greeted you and said farewell by hugging you.”

Manitoba’s Lieutenant Governor, Anita R. Neville, said Merrick was “a force” and passionate about her role and responsibility to her people.

“She was a friend and I will miss her,” said Neville. “She was a true leader, and a changemaker.”

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‘We have lost a Grand Chief that was there for her people all across Manitoba.’ -MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee

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Friday evening, Grand Chief Garrison Settee with Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakinac Inc. (MKO), alongside Pimicikamak Cree Nation Chief David Monias and Fox Lake Chief Morris Beardy shared statements honouring Merrick’s legacy.

“She dedicated her life to advocating for the needs and aspirations of our First Nations, tirelessly working to uplift our voices and bring attention to the issues that matter most to our people,” said Settee.

“We have lost a Grand Chief that was there for her people all across Manitoba.”

Monias said he would miss Merrick’s leadership, courage and guidance, adding, “Her impact, her wisdom, and her unwavering dedication to our people will be remembered forever.”

Beardy called Merrick “a fierce yet compassionate advocate for First Nations across Manitoba”.

“We know that she has moved on to the next journey and her spirit will continue on in her legacy,” Beardy said.

David Chartrand, president of the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), said flags at its buildings are have also been lowered to half mast in honour of Merrick.

“I know from personal experience that she was a consummate professional, a strong communicator and a passionate advocate for her people – she died as she lived, working tirelessly for the causes she cared about,” said Chartrand.

Winnipeg mayor Scott Gillingham said he was “deeply saddened” after hearing news of Merrick’s death, extending condolences to everyone in mourning.

“Over the past two years, I had the privilege of working closely with Chief Merrick and always valued her wisdom and the heartfelt conversations we shared. She was not just a colleague but a friend,” he said.

“Her leadership, strength, and compassion touched many lives, and I know she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, and Indigenous communities across the country.”

The Winnipeg Police Service called Merrick a “visionary for positive change and reconciliation.” Manitoba RCMP’s assistant commissioner Scott McMurphy and Manitoba Hydro’s CEO Allan Danroth also expressed condolences.