Statement from Deborah Anishinabie’s Family as Preliminary Hearing Begins for Accused
THUNDER BAY, ON: The family of the late Deborah Anishinabie has released the following statement as the preliminary court hearing for the accused in her 2024 murder gets underway in Thunder Bay today:
“Today we remember Deborah as the loving friend, sister and mother that she was – full of strength and kindness, and deeply connected to her family and community. She could light up any room, and we always welcomed her contagious laugh. She had a wonderful way of making people feel that they were seen, heard, and loved. She was devoted to her family, as we were to her. She will forever be in our hearts.
Deborah was eagerly pursuing a career in healthcare while living in Thunder Bay with one of her children. She was a recent graduate of the Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute, where she completed the Personal Support Worker program. She had much love to give, and she poured every ounce of her compassion into her work and the people she cared for.
We appreciate everyone who have joined with us in ceremony and supported us throughout this difficult process. May the Creator give us all the strength to get through the difficult days ahead.”
Levi Lawson was charged with indignity to a human body on December 17, 2024, and second-degree murder on January 31, 2025. The preliminary hearing is scheduled for two days.
Family members and supporters will attend the hearing to ensure that Deborah’s life is honoured and remembered. Her family will put faith in the legal system to ensure that she receives the justice she deserves.
NAN encourages all those who are grieving to seek support and care from loved ones, community resources, and mental health professionals. Anyone requiring support is urged to contact:
- NAN Hope 1-844-NAN-HOPE (626-4673)
- First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line (1-855-242-3310)
- Beendigen Talk4Healing – For Indigenous Women (1-888-200-9997)
Note to Media: No further statements will be made at this time. Deputy Grand Chief Anna Betty Achneepineskum will be available to speak. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, please direct all inquiries to Nishnawbe Aski Nation – Michael Heintzman, 807-621-2790, mheintzman@nan.ca.
For more information please contact:
Michael Heintzman,
Director of Communications
Cell: (807) 621-2790
mheintzman@nan.ca