THE HONOURABLE TINA L. DION APPOINTED AS JUDGE OF THE SUPREME COURT OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

The Indigenous Bar Association in Canada (IBA) proudly congratulates the Honourable Tina L. Dion on her appointment as a Judge of the Supreme Court of British Columbia in New Westminster. Justice Dion, a member of Kehewin Cree Nation located in Treaty No. 6 territory, has served with distinction as a judge of the Provincial Court of British Columbia since 2019.

Justice Dion’s appointment is a significant milestone, reflecting her outstanding contributions to the legal profession and her unwavering commitment to justice. With over 20 years of experience in various facets of the law, including criminal law, civil litigation, and in her role as in-house counsel for the Tsawwassen First Nation, Justice Dion has demonstrated a deep passion for helping others—a passion that has driven her throughout her career.

Drew Lafond, President of the IBA, stated, "Justice Tina Dion's appointment to the Supreme Court of British Columbia is a monumental step forward for the Indigenous legal community. Her journey from advocate to judge is a powerful example of perseverance and dedication. Justice Dion’s commitment to justice and her passion for uplifting others have made her an exemplary figure in our community. Her appointment not only reflects her individual achievements but also the broader progress we are making toward representation and equality in the legal profession."

Justice Dion is one of the growing number of Indigenous judges who have been appointed at a critical juncture in Canada’s journey toward reconciliation. Justice Dion’s appointment to the Court of BCSC after impactfully holding office at the Provincial Court of British Columbia is a testament to her dedication and the progress being made toward greater representation and inclusion within the judiciary. The IBA celebrates this historic appointment and looks forward to Justice Dion's continued impact on the legal landscape in British Columbia and beyond.

The IBA is the national non-profit organization representing Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, and Inuit) lawyers (practicing and non-practicing), judges legal academics and scholars, articling clerks and law students, including graduate and post-graduate law students and paralegals in Canada.

The IBA’s mandate includes, inter alia, advocating for the recognition of Indigenous laws, legal traditions, protocols and processes; promoting the reform of policies and laws affecting Indigenous peoples in Canada; and fostering public awareness within the legal community in respect of legal and social issues of concern to Indigenous peoples in Canada.