Statement on the passing of Grandmother Josephine Mandamin

OTTAWA, ONTARIO (February 22, 2019) – The Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Carolyn Bennett, issued the following statement today:

“Along with the Anishnabek Nation we mourn the passing of Water Protector Josephine Mandamin, beloved role model, teacher and advocate.

Known as Grandmother Water Walker or Grandmother Josephine, she devoted her life to raising awareness of the connection water has with all living things. She taught all of us of the fragility of water, and the risks that exist to the health and sustainability of our waterways.

The important work she started through Mother Earth Water Walk and the Great Lakes Guardians’ Council lays the foundation for the future of the Great Lakes Waterways, and for the next seven generations of water walkers and water warriors from across Turtle Island.

She has touched many of our lives and we are truly grateful to have gained knowledge and wisdom from this inspirational woman and her life’s work.
 
Miigwetch Grandmother Josephine.”