The Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation

Thursday evening this week was the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation dinner. More than 400 people gathered at the Fairmont to remember Helen Betty Osborne and to raise funds for scholarships to be given to aboriginal students through the Foundation.

The tragic death of Helen Betty Osborne and the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry and its report which eventually resulted have laid the foundation for improved justice for aboriginal people in Manitoba. Sadly many of the recommendations are not yet implemented and there is still a need to act to improve Manitoba's justice system for aboriginal people. But Thursday night was less about this and more a celebration of the aboriginal students who are receiving scholarships and are doing well in college or university.

It was also a time to enjoy the Asham Stompers and to look and buy aboriginal art and blankets. up for action. I would like to pay tribute to the artists who donated works to raise money for the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation. There were quite a number including well known artists like Gayle Sinclair. But one person stands out for me. Wendy Neault donated a number of attractive artistic ceramic pieces. She enjoys her art, but rather than try for personal gain, she has chosen to donate her art for charitable causes like the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation. Thank you to Wendy and the other artists.