INDIGENOUS BAR ASSOCIATION APPLAUDS APPOINTMENT OF JULIE L. BLACKHAWK AS FEDERAL COURT JUDGE

OTTAWA, ON - The Indigenous Bar Association (IBA) proudly celebrates the recent appointment of Julie L. Blackhawk, a member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte Nation, to the judiciary. Justice Blackhawk's extensive experience and steadfast dedication to Aboriginal law and Indigenous issues mark her as a formidable addition to the bench.

Justice Blackhawk's contributions to the legal community are exemplary. As an active member of the Federal Court’s Aboriginal Law Bar Liaison Committee, Justice Blackhawk played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Aboriginal law proceedings. She made invaluable contributions to the development of the 2016 Practice Guidelines for Aboriginal Law Proceedings, a testament to her dedication to promoting fair and equitable legal practices within Indigenous communities.

Moreover, Justice Blackhawk is renowned for her expertise in s.35 Aboriginal law, and she has been a vocal advocate on various issues concerning Indigenous rights. Her regular engagements as a speaker on topics related to Aboriginal law and Indigenous issues have further solidified her reputation as a leading authority in the field.

Drew Lafond, President of the Indigenous Bar Association, expressed his admiration for Justice Blackhawk's appointment, stating, "Justice Blackhawk's appointment marks a significant achievement for the Indigenous legal community. Her steadfast advocacy and unyielding dedication to advancing Indigenous rights serve as an inspiration to us all. With her on the bench, we are emboldened in our pursuit of justice and equality."

The Indigenous Bar Association extends its warmest congratulations to Justice Julie L. Blackhawk on this well-deserved achievement. Her appointment not only reflects her individual merit but also represents a step forward in advancing Indigenous representation within the judiciary.

The IBA is the national association of Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, and Inuit) lawyers (practicing and non-practicing), 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 process; 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. For more information, visit www.indigenousbar.ca