Amanda Lathlin, the first First Nations woman to be elected to the legislative assembly in Manitoba’s history, has died, the provincial NDP said on Saturday.  

Premier Wab Kinew said that Lathlin, the MLA for The Pas-Kameesak, is being remembered as a strong advocate for the community she served for a decade.  

“Amanda brought strength, compassion, and determination to public life. She was proud of her roots and passionate about building a better future for the people she served. In the Legislature and in her community, Amanda led with heart and conviction,” Kinew said in a statement sent to party members and supporters on Saturday night. 

Lathlin was elected to represent The Pas in a 2015 byelection and then won again when the riding was changed to The Pas-Kameesak in 2019. She was re-elected in 2023.

Lathlin previously served as band councillor for Opaskwayak Cree Nation.

Last month, caucus chair Robert Loiselle said Lathlin would be taking time off due to health complications. Loiselle’s Feb. 13 statement did not provide details on the health complications. 

“She was deeply committed to improving life for people in northern Manitoba and never stopped advocating for the communities she loved,” Kinew said, calling Lathlin a “fighter for all Manitobans.” 

Lathlin is the daughter of former NDP cabinet minister Oscar Lathlin, who also represented The Pas. He died in 2008. 

Kinew said Lathlin was a “devoted mother” who became a grandmother shortly before her passing. 

“Above all else, she loved her family deeply and devoted her life to her girls,” Kinew said.

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, which represents 26 northern Manitoba First Nations including Opaskwayak Cree Nation, said Lathlin was an “amazing warrior” and a “fearless advocate whose dedication to her people will never be forgotten,” in a statement posted to social media. 

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs said the MLA was a “trailblazer” and a “strong voice for her people.” 

“Amanda was known for her deep connection to the people she served—taking time to visit, listen, and build relationships grounded in respect, humour, and care,” AMC said in a statement on Saturday. 

The Southern Chiefs’ Organization said in a statement that Lathlin worked to improve supports for sexual assault survivors in the north, calling her a “dedicated advocate for her people.” The MLA also helped to bring in compassionate leave for people who’ve experienced a miscarriage. 

“On behalf of SCO, we extend our deepest sympathy to her daughter, family, loved ones, the people of Opaskwayak Cree Nation, constituents, colleagues, and all who are grieving this tremendous loss,” SCO said.