AMC goes virtual for the Jingle Mingle Gala 2021
December 17, 2021
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
alexpapineau
Treaty One Territory – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) issues this statement in relation to our upcoming Jingle Mingle Gala 2021 amid public health recommendations to reconsider holiday gatherings with the rise of COVID-19 Omicron variant. The fundraising event, Jingle Mingle 2021 will officially change to an online performance, live-streamed with details to follow.
AMC Grand Chief Arlen Dumas stated, “The AMC has been and will always be a leader for all First Nations and other Canadians alike. We set the tone, especially in the face of difficult and contentious decisions. I would, however, be remiss not to mention how very difficult this decision was. I’m cognizant of how much every attendee was looking forward to this event, seeing friends and family and gathering as we do for fun and celebration. But it is the AMC’s responsibility to be leaders in this province and set a high standard and example for all here and across the country, which is why we have cancelled the in person portion of the event for tomorrow.”
In consultation with our Chiefs, the Pandemic Response Coordination Leads (PRCT) leads and many in our Nations, the overwhelming message was that First Nations have always led the way in keeping our citizens safe. This event is no different and it is our responsibility to lead accordingly. The Jingle Mingle is traditionally a dinner and dance fundraiser bringing people together in the spirit of the holiday season to support local grassroots movements. This year’s chosen movements include the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak’s Santa Express, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization’s The Orange Santa Project and local supports to survivors of Indian Residential Schools.
We want to thank our sponsors and everyone who purchased tickets. Our team is working around the clock to create solutions on this matter. We want to encourage all of our supporters and allies to please consider allowing your sponsorships and tickets to stand. To that end, if there are any further sponsors or individual allies that feel inspired to step up in solidarity, our AMC team would welcome extra support to assist us in raising funds for our chosen recipients via Shauna Fontaine at sfontaine@manitobachiefs.com .
Grand Chief Dumas concluded, “I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and keep our Nations and each other safe this holiday seasons. Take care of each other and be well. I further encourage all other organizations and entities to cancel any in person events at this critical time. Now is the time to step up and be responsible to protect each other.”