AMC Responds to Arrest of Suspect in Winnipeg Mass Shooting
December 1, 2023
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory – In the wake of the recent tragic incident resulting in the deaths of Crystal Shannon Beardy, Stephanie Amanda Beardy, Melelek Leseri Lesikel, and Dylan Maxwell Lavallee, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) strongly advocates for a collective effort to end violence within our First Nations and outside communities. We commend the investigators’ commitment to seeking justice for the victims, and our hearts go out to the families affected by this heartbreaking event.
The arrest of Jamie Randy Felix in connection with this mass shooting emphasizes the urgency of addressing the root causes of such violence. The AMC calls for not only bringing perpetrators to justice but to proactively intervening to prevent violence.
“I extend my deepest condolences to those who are mourning and feeling the profound loss of their loved ones,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick. “The pain of such tragedies is immeasurable, and our hearts are with you during this difficult time.”
To combat violence, the AMC stresses the importance of providing holistic mental health support to First Nations men, ensuring access to traditional teachings and fostering healthy relationships. Engaging with men and boys actively works towards ending violence towards women and children. By grounding ourselves in ancestral teachings and promoting healthy relationships, respect, and empathy, we aim to create a safer and more nurturing environment for everyone in our Nations.
“Our commitment extends beyond condolences, it is imperative that we tackle the root causes of violence and take proactive measures,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick. “By prioritizing mental health support and addictions, we actively contribute to fostering a safer, more compassionate environment for everyone. The AMC remains dedicated to collaborating with partners and Nations, developing and implementing programs that not only prioritize mental health but also intervene effectively before violence unfolds within our homes, Nations, and municipalities”.
In memory of Crystal Shannon Beardy, Stephanie Amanda Beardy, Melelek Leseri Lesikel, and Dylan Maxwell Lavallee, we advocate for a collective commitment to ending violence, promoting mental health, and creating a safer and more compassionate world. Together, let us work towards a future where such tragic incidents become unimaginable.
For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com
About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
The AMC was formed in 1988 by the Chiefs in Manitoba to advocate on issues that commonly affect First Nations in Manitoba. AMC is an authorized representative of 62 of the 63 First Nations in Manitoba with a total of more than 171,000 First Nation citizens in the province, accounting for approximately 12 percent of the provincial population. AMC represents a diversity of Anishinaabe (Ojibway), Nehetho / Ininew (Cree), Anishininew (Ojibwe-Cree), Denesuline (Dene) and Dakota Oyate (Dakota) peoples.