Nationtalk: Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is growing increasingly concerned about the human rights violations prevalent in Premier Heather Stefanson’s newest campaign slogan. The slogan, “Stand firm” references the position of her party to not search two Winnipeg landfills for the remains of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe (Buffalo Woman).

“In a crucial election season, Heather Stefanson had a unique opportunity to use her platform as a leader to amplify the voices of First Nations women, and in doing so, all women,” said AMC Grand Chief Cathy Merrick, “It is with deep disappointment that we cannot trust Heather Stefanson’s leadership to uphold international human rights laws and the basic tenents of UNDRIP.”

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) provides a framework for reconciliation, healing, and peace, as well as harmonious and cooperative relations based on the principles of justice, democracy, respect for human rights, non-discrimination, and good faith.

Canadians across Turtle Island have witnessed numerous cases where individuals, not just from First Nations backgrounds, have tragically ended up in landfills across the country. It’s evident that irrespective of nationality, age, or gender, no family can achieve closure when their loved ones go missing or are victims of homicide under Heather Stefanson’s leadership.

Chief Kyra Wilson of Long Plain First Nation added, “Stefanson’s political campaign underscores the urgent need for change. Her insensitivity to the families grieving lost loved ones is unacceptable. As a province, we need to move past divisive rhetoric and concentrate on the bigger picture. Now is the time to unite as a community and vote for a brighter, more compassionate future for Manitoba, focusing on genuine solutions rather than exploiting the pain of these families to score a few political points.”

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs remains dedicated to advocating for the rights and dignity of First Nations and is committed to holding leaders accountable for their actions. We call upon all Manitobans to seriously consider the values and conduct of candidates in the upcoming elections and make choices that reflect the gravity of these issues.

For more information, please contact:

Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com