Norman Deschampe
The Minnesota Chippewa Tribe (MCT) Legislative dinner received a new name this year. From now on it will be called the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe Annual Norman Deschampe Legacy Reception.
Norman Deschampe, who led Grand Portage for many years, passed away at age 65 of a heart attack on February 9, 2019. Leaders held him in great respect statewide and nationwide.
Norman was first elected to the Grand Portage Tribal Council at the age of 23 and went on to serve more than 40 years in tribal leadership, including 27 years as chairman.
“Norman was MCT President for many years and this just shows how highly he was thought of,” said Agatha Armstrong, Executive Assistant of the Grand Portage Tribal Council.
The dinner was held in St. Paul on February 18.
Representing Grand Portage were Beth Drost, chairwoman; April McCormick, secretary/ treasurer; John Morrin, committeeman; William “Bill” Meyers, committeeman and Rick Anderson, committeeman.
Also attending the dinner and reception were tribal leaders from Fond du Lac, Leech Lake, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, Boise Forte, and White Earth.
MCT President Catherine J. Chavers welcomed everyone to the meeting and then introduced the tribal leaders. Following a traditional dinner, Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan spoke.
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