(Vancouver, BC) BCMF founding President Keith Henry announced today that Gerry Legare tendered his resignation last Friday due to his health issues. Gerry will be deeply missed as a proud Métis leader with a strong commitment to accountable Métis governance in British Columbia.
Both of Gerry’s parents are from Métis heritage and because of that he is well versed in Métis history and culture. Gerry was also a strong proponent of the potential in Métis people in British Columbia and Canada to stand up for their rights and the proper acknowledgement of the rich traditions and history they brought to the formation of this country.
In Cranbrook, Gerry is well known for his work and dedication to the Métis people he served in the Kootenay Regional Métis Association, Kootenay Regional Director, plus a number of other appointments over the years. Gerry has also served as a Métis representative on the board of directors of the Ktunaxa Nation Four Pillars-Social sector and sat as Vice President.
BCMF Founding President Keith Henry stated; “I am very proud to call Gerry Legare my friend but never more so than when he stood up as a member of the MNBC Board of Directors shoulder to shoulder with fellow Directors Rose Bortolon and Rene Therrien to call into question the integrity of the those politicians running MNBC. It was a gutsy move in January 2010 that Gerry never regretted even though taking that action resulted in his suspension, with Gerry it is always about doing the right thing and not just about himself.”
BCMF President Henry added; “We all know the battle that Gerry Legare has been courageously waging for several years against cancer. Gerry has to focus all of his efforts right now on his personal fight and I know his friends will send our prayers each day in the battle.”
BCMF President Henry further added; “As a direct result of the news of his deteriorating health Gerry has submitted his resignation from the BC Métis Federation Board of Directors effective immediately. Personally I feel that Gerry, even as he battled cancer, added strength and spirit to the Coalition of Concerned Métis Citizens in its initial stage and I am very pleased he was well enough to serve on the BCMF Board of Directors even for a shortened term. I have had differences of opinions over the years with Gerry but we always worked through issues with respect and understanding. I have learned so much from this great man and I hope the people of this province understand what a great person Mr. Legare is.”
BCMF President Henry concluded; “On behalf of the BCMF Board of Directors and our staff I extend my personal encouragement and immense gratitude to Gerry for a job well done and a life well lived. Irrespective of where the road leads to from here the pleasure of our friendship and association was all mine.”
Keith Henry
Founding President
BC Métis Federation
#300-3665 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC, V5R 5W2
Office 1-604-683-7220
Cell 1-778-388-5013
Email k.henry@bcmetis.com
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