Fri Sep 06 22:27:36 UTC 2024: – In Indigenous communities, the evaluation of a chief or leader is based on the question of who eats last
– Cathy Merrick, the grand chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, passed away suddenly
– Merrick was known for prioritizing the needs of the less strong, such as elders, children, and those who couldn’t feed themselves
– She was a fierce advocate for Indigenous rights and worked to address social issues in her community
– Merrick was the first female grand chief in the history of the advocacy body of 62 First Nations in Manitoba
– During her time in office, she focused on advocating for murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls, negotiating water rights and treaty land entitlement claims
– Her leadership was characterized by her dedication to advocating for the disenfranchised and fighting for change
– Merrick’s final act was advocating for justice for an inmate who died under criminal negligence in custody.

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