Lord, we, with gratitude, pray for our leader Hon. Bernadette Smith. Her dedication and commitment to the concerns she addresses has helped our province be more aware of many issues faced by our citizenry. We ask for your blessing on her today as she carries out her responsibilities. May her spirit be in tune with your spirit; may her footing be strengthened; and may her courage be renewed. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
Bernadette Smith was first elected as the MLA for Point Douglas in 2017. She was born and raised in Winnipeg’s North End neighbourhood and understands the challenges of the families in her community because she has lived them. Smith has served as official opposition critic for mental health and community wellness, as well as caucus chair. As an MLA, she has passed legislation to ban poverty as grounds for the apprehension of children, create license plates for MMIWG2S awareness, create a Drug-Related Death Bereavement Day and recognize Spirit Bear Day in Manitoba to raise awareness about Jordan’s Principle. Smith is the co-founder of the Drag the Red Initiative and has been recognized for her work as an advocate fighting for justice for MMIWG2S families. She is a proud Indigenous mother and grandmother.