THUNDER BAY: Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic demands that Lakehead University reverse its unilateral decision to alter the Law School curriculum. Lakehead University recently reduced the original full credit course on Native Canadian World Views to a half credit, without any consultation or collaboration with invested First Nation partners in the Law School. 

Nishnawbe Aski Nation demanding honour from University

Nishnawbe Aski Nation demands that the Lakehead University Faculty of Law deliver the full credit course on Native Canadian World Views in full consultation and collaboration with the Indigenous Learning Centre at Lakehead University and other Aboriginal organizations and Elders.    

“NAN strongly supports the position of protesting students at Lakehead University and are frustrated with the unilateral decision made by the Law School Dean,” said NAN Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic.

“After close analysis of the situation, NAN demands the University follow the original course curriculum that was approved by the Senate, the Law Society of Upper Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Education. Lakehead University would be a trailblazer and fore runner in Indigenous learning and legal education not only nationally but internationally by offering the original course that focuses on Indigenous worldviews”.

The Deputy Grand Chief adds, “We are expecting the University President Dr. Brian Stevenson to act on the university’s commitment to fulfill the original agreement, and for him in particular, to fulfill his commitment in ‘reaching out to Aboriginal people.’” 

Nishnawbe Aski Nation was involved in the final approved proposal for the Lakehead University Law School and instrumental in its final sanction.