Law faculty seeks First Nations input

THUNDER BAY– Lakehead University officials have signed a protocol agreement with the Union of Ontario Indians and three Aboriginal representative organizations to contribute to awareness of Aboriginal legal issues for the new Faculty of Law.

The agreement will see representatives from the Anishinabek Nation, Nishnawbe Aski Nation,  Grand Council Treaty #3, and the Métis Nation of Ontario meet on a semi-annual basis to discuss issues relating to Aboriginal perspectives of the law.

“I look forward to working with First Nation and Métis  organizations in furthering the Faculty of Law’s mandate of focusing on Aboriginal law and understanding of Aboriginal issues, the needs of small practitioners, and natural resources law,” said Faculty of Law Founding Dean Lee Stuesser.

“Lakehead University, with the new Law School and agreements with First Nations, has taken a positive step in creating a strong environment for our young men and women to be positive role models in the world of education,” said Peter Collins, Northern Superior Regional Grand Chief for the Anishinabek Nation.

“It is essential that the Faculty of Law remain engaged with First Nation and Métis political organizations to ensure that our perspectives on historical and emerging issues are reflected through the curriculum,” said Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic.

Lakehead President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Brian Stevenson said this agreement is important because the Faculty of Law owes its existence to the commitment of communities in Northwestern Ontario.

“Nishnawbe Aski Nation was one of the groups that approached Lakehead University to create the Faculty of Law,” Dr. Stevenson said. “We value our partnerships and look forward to working with all of these groups to make the Faculty of Law the best it can be for this community and the region.”