An outpouring of support and sympathy from Indigenous community members and the wider community in Manitoba continues following the sudden passing of Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cathy Merrick. Tonight, those in Brandon wishing to show their support will have a chance to do so.
In a post on their Facebook page, Ask Auntie Brandon said they, along with the Brandon Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation and the City of Brandon, will host a candlelight vigil at Riverbank Discover Centre. The gathering will start at 6:00 at the main stage, with the vigil starting at 7:00.
“Grand Chief Cathy Merrick was a trailblazing advocate here in Manitoba and especially for our Urban Indigenous population here in Brandon,” reads the Facebook post. “She was a great friend and a huge help to many of the other Indigenous organizations here in Westman and especially Ask Auntie.”
According to the post, Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett will speak on behalf of the city, while Dean Don Bernhardt will have a prayer.
Merrick died suddenly on Friday, September 6 after collapsing while speaking to reporters.
