Photo credit (Wab Kinew/Facebook)
Manitoba is mourning the loss of Amanda Lathlin, a history‑making MLA whose leadership, advocacy, and deep connection to the north left a lasting mark on the province. Lathlin, who represented The Pas–Kameesak, was the first First Nations woman ever elected to the Manitoba Legislature, winning a 2015 by‑election and serving her community for nearly a decade.
Her passing was confirmed over the weekend, prompting an outpouring of condolences from across Manitoba. Provincial leaders, Indigenous organizations, and community members are remembering her as a barrier‑breaker who helped reshape the political landscape and elevate northern voices in government. Lathlin was widely respected for her commitment to The Pas, Opaskwayak Cree Nation, and surrounding communities, where she was known for her warmth, humour, and ability to connect personally with nearly everyone she met.
During her time in cabinet, Lathlin championed legislation aimed at improving supports for sexual assault survivors in northern Manitoba and expanding compassionate leave for women experiencing miscarriages. She also fought to protect Oscar’s Place, a homeless shelter named in honour of her father, the late Oscar Lathlin, who served as an NDP cabinet minister before his death in 2008. Her work was often rooted in family legacy, community responsibility, and a determination to strengthen services in remote and northern regions.
Lathlin stepped away from her duties earlier this year due to serious health complications. According to updates shared by her family, she had been battling a severe infection that led to kidney issues and fluid buildup in her lungs. She had been preparing for discharge from hospital when her condition suddenly worsened.
Beyond her political achievements, Lathlin is being remembered as a proud Cree speaker, a dedicated mother and grandmother, and a leader who carried her culture and community with her into every space she entered.
Tributes continue to pour in from across Manitoba, honouring the path she forged and the generations she inspired.
Funeral arrangements and public memorial details are expected to be shared in the coming days.
