Indigenous Bar Association in Canada

Congratulations to our IBA Board Member, Stephanie Willsey, for being named one of Toronto Life magazine's 25 Rising Stars of 2024! At just 31, Stephanie is making an undeniable impact as an associate litigator with McCarthy Tétrault, focusing on defending Indigenous rights. For instance, she was at the forefront of landmark cases, including her historic $8 billion class-action victory against the federal government on behalf of Indigenous communities lacking access to clean drinking water. Stephanie continues to break barriers, advocating for housing rights in remote First Nations, addressing the impacts of child welfare systems in Manitoba, enforcing treaty terms, and challenging systemic inequities like carding in Toronto. We are so proud to celebrate Stephanie’s achievements and are inspired by her unwavering commitment to advancing justice for Indigenous peoples.

The IBA celebrates the Royal Assent of Bill S-13, An Act to Amend the Interpretation Act. This historic legislation marks a significant step forward in recognizing and affirming the unique role of Indigenous languages, perspectives, and legal orders within the Canadian legal framework. This marks a historic milestone in Canada’s journey towards reconciliation and respect for Indigenous peoples’ rights. Bill S-13 amends the federal Interpretation Act, to require the federal government to interpret federal laws, statues and regulations in a manner consistent with the recognition and implementation of Indigenous rights, as enshrined in Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. The IBA was honored to participate in the legislative process, with submissions to the Standing Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs. Professor Naiomi Metallic appeared on behalf of the IBA and expressed support for the bill’s proposed non-derogation clause while also encouraging Canada to include language that requires laws to conform with the UNDRIP. IBA President, Drew Lafond, said: "Bill S-13 strengthens the legal foundation for interpreting Canadian laws in alignment with Section 35, while embracing Indigenous legal perspectives and principles. The inclusion of the non-derogation clause in the Interpretation Act also opens the door for greater respect and integration of Indigenous legal orders within the Canadian legal framework. The IBA is proud to have contributed to this significant milestone and will continue to champion the rights and laws of Indigenous peoples. We thank Professor Metallic for her tireless advocacy and calling on Canada to fully implement its commitments under the UNDRIP. We also commend the efforts of all legislators, advocates, and communities who worked tirelessly to see Bill S-13 enacted." To review the full press release, please visit https://lnkd.in/g6tFsP9a

Last night Racquel attended the Women in Law Leadership (WILL) Awards Banquet in support of Eileen Sasakamoose, IPC, Lifetime Achievement Award. She was introduced by her nominator, former articling student and IBA Member Koren Lightning, KC. In attendance as well was IBA member and also one of Eileen's former articling students, Sherri Turner. It was a wonderful night of celebration, laughter, tears of gratitude and joy, and epic visiting! Congratulations, Eileen!

🦅Celebrating the Achievements of Future Legal Warriors: Krystal Anderson and Tamara Pelletier 🦅 The Indigenous Bar Association (IBA) is thrilled to congratulate Krystal Anderson, a 1L student at the University of Alberta, Faculty of Law, and Tamara Pelletier, a 1L student at the Peter A. Allard School of Law at UBC, on being awarded the prestigious IBA Scholarship Foundation Scholarships. These scholarships recognize their academic excellence, dedication to community, and commitment to advancing Indigenous legal traditions and justice. Typically, we announce these awards at our Annual IBA Conference. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, we were unable to do so this year. We deeply regret not being able to celebrate these outstanding recipients in person during the 36th Annual IBA Conference. Nevertheless, we are overjoyed to share this news with our community now. Krystal and Tamara represent the strength, resilience, and brilliance of the next generation of Indigenous legal warriors. Their journeys in law school are a testament to their determination and vision, and we have no doubt they will continue to make meaningful contributions to Indigenous communities and the broader legal landscape. To Krystal and Tamara, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for your studies and careers ahead. You embody the values and aspirations of the IBA, and we are excited to see the incredible work you will achieve in the years to come! 🪶

This Remembrance Day, the Indigenous Bar Association joins communities across Turtle Island to honor and remember all soldiers who have served, sacrificed, and defended the freedoms we hold dear. We are grateful for the brave men and women—Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike—who have answered the call, standing together in times of war, peace, and resilience. We extend a special recognition to the contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis veterans. Indigenous soldiers have served courageously through generations, facing not only the trials of war but also the profound injustices upon their return. Despite these hardships, Indigenous veterans have continued to protect and defend their homelands and our shared values. Today, we remember their sacrifices and pledge to honor their legacies. Let us reflect on their courage and work toward a future that uplifts and respects all veterans and their communities.

The IBA is pleased to announce the appointment of Stuart Wuttke to the prestigious Indigenous Peoples Counsel (IPC) designation, recognizing his dedication and contributions to the advancement of Indigenous law, rights, and governance. This honor reflects Stuart's lifelong commitment to serving Indigenous communities and his unwavering advocacy for Indigenous jurisdiction, equity, and self-determination. The IPC ceremony took place on October 25, 2024 at the Annual IBA Gala. On behalf of the IBA, Drew Lafond, President of the IBA, celebrated the appointment with the following words: “Stuart’s appointment to the IPC designation is a testament to his relentless dedication to Indigenous advocacy and his profound impact on the Indigenous legal community. He exemplifies the values and integrity central to the IPC designation, and his work is an inspiration to all those committed to exercising Indigenous jurisdiction and advancing justice for our communities. The IBA is proud to stand beside Stuart in his journey, and we congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.” To read the full press release please visit our website at: https://lnkd.in/g6tFsP9a

It is with profound sadness that the Indigenous Bar Association (IBA) marks the passing of the Honourable Murray Sinclair, I.P.C., a beloved leader, mentor, and visionary in Indigenous justice and reconciliation. Justice Sinclair’s tireless dedication to advancing Indigenous rights and bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities has left a permanent legacy that will inspire generations to come. Drew Lafond, President of the Indigenous Bar Association, shared heartfelt reflections on Justice Sinclair’s legacy: "Justice Sinclair was more than a leader; he was a guiding light in our pursuit of justice, a voice for truth, and an unwavering advocate for the rights and dignity of Indigenous Peoples. He defined what it means to be a trailblazer. His work with the TRC shifted the consciousness of a nation, and his legacy challenges each of us to carry forward his mission of reconciliation and justice. We owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude and will work to honor his legacy in everything we do. Today, we mourn not only a remarkable jurist but also a cherished elder, a true leader, and an incredibly kind human being. Hiy hiy, Justice Sinclair, for all you have given us." To the full press release please visit our website at www.indigenousbar.ca

🌟 Reconciliation in Motion Sponsors! 🌟 We are honored to acknowledge the incredible support of our Reconciliation in Motion Sponsors for the 36th Annual Indigenous Bar Association Conference! 🎉 City of Edmonton | OKT Law | Blakes | Nahwegahbow Corbiere | Jarislowsky Fraser | Law Society of Ontario 🎉 These sponsors are helping to make our Reconciliation in Motion programming a powerful and meaningful experience. Their commitment to advancing reconciliation in the legal field and beyond reflects the shared values of justice, equity, and healing that we uphold at the IBA. Mistahiy ninaskomon, thank you to these generous sponsors for driving reconciliation efforts forward and supporting this vital dialogue.

🌟 Student Day Sponsor Appreciation! 🌟 We are excited to recognize JFK Law, First Peoples Law, and Gowling WLG as the proud Student Day Sponsors for the 36th Annual Indigenous Bar Association Conference! 🎓✨ JFK Law | First Peoples Law | Gowling WLG ✨🎓 Their incredible support makes it possible for us to host an engaging and impactful IBA Student Day—a day dedicated to empowering the next generation of Indigenous legal professionals. Thanks to these amazing sponsors, students will have the opportunity to network, learn, and gain invaluable insights from mentors and leaders in the legal field. We are so grateful for their investment in the future of Indigenous law! A heartfelt thank you to JFK Law, First Peoples Law, and Gowling for their commitment to supporting and inspiring Indigenous students!

Discover the beauty of Indigenous artistry and craftsmanship at our IBA Conference Mini Artisan Market! We have carefully curated a group of highly skilled artisans who produce high quality pieces and products. Please stop by their tables and say hello! Don't forget to bring your wallets! Joining us this year: @yellowbirddesigns9 @four.pines @scott_laboucan_art @sweetgrassskinco @beadingmedicine @midnight.sun.elegance @nikanaseek_beads