FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2025
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Grand Chief Garrison Settee was proud to accept the award for the Order of the Buffalo Hunt in recognition of MKO’s leadership and tireless efforts during the 2025 wildfire crisis that impacted First Nations across northern Manitoba.
Throughout the summer, MKO played a vital role in coordinating the emergency response, supporting evacuations, and advocating for culturally safe health services for displaced families. MKO’s dedicated team ensured northern First Nations evacuees received timely support, resources, and care during one of the most challenging wildfire seasons in recent memory.
“This honour belongs to every MKO staff member, every leader, and every family who stood strong during the wildfire crisis,” said Grand Chief Settee. “This summer’s wildfire crisis exposed the deep challenges our northern First Nations face when trying to access emergency resources; limited infrastructure and gaps in coordination made the process harder than it should have been, but MKO never stopped advocating. We pushed every day to make sure the northern First Nations were not forgotten, and we will continue to fight for faster, more equitable emergency response systems that respect the needs of our people in the future.”
The Order of the Buffalo Hunt is one of Manitoba’s highest honours, awarded to those who demonstrate exceptional service and dedication to the people of the province. It symbolizes strength, leadership, and commitment to community.
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