For Immediate Release
Date: May 9, 2025
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) extends congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election as leader of the Roman Catholic Church. As we continue the journey of healing and reconciliation, MKO recognizes the vital role Pope Leo XIV can play in advancing meaningful dialogue between First Nations and the Vatican.
“We welcome Pope Leo XIV’s leadership with optimism and hope,” said MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee “His predecessor, Pope Francis, took important steps in acknowledging past harms and fostering reconciliation, and we encourage Pope Leo XIV to continue on this path, building stronger relationships with Indigenous Peoples and committing to meaningful acts of reconciliation.”
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, MKO looks forward to working collaboratively with the Vatican and other faith leaders to promote healing, unity, and justice for Indigenous Peoples in Canada and beyond.
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