This June, as we mark National Indigenous History Month and the 10th anniversary of the Declaration of the Rights of First Nations Children, we are honouring a handful of First Nations who were committed to defending the rights of children in Quebec and across Canada.
Nora Bernard (1935-2007)
Originally from the Millbrook First Nation in Nova Scotia, Nora Bernard was a passionate advocate for First Nations rights. Forced to attend the Shubenacadie Indian Residential School at the age of nine, she dedicated her life to amplifying the voices of survivors. Through her determination and commitment, she played a key role in the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, one of the largest class-action settlements in Canadian history.
Besides being an inspiring activist, those closest to Nora remember her as a wise, humble woman who was caring and devoted to her family, friends and community.
Raientonni Aiontonnis
Raientonni Aiontonnis, better known as Big John Canadian, was a Mohawk raftsman, pilot, voyageur and lacrosse player from Caughnawaga (now Kahnawà:ke, in Quebec). A legendary figure of his time, he stood out as one of the best raftsmen for bringing down cribs of timber and as a famous steamboat pilot, employed by various shipping companies on the St. Lawrence between Montréal and Ontario.
From a young age, Raientonni embodied the courage and boldness passed down from his ancestors, and he always sought professions that reflected these values. He was also exceptionally talented in the traditional Mohawk sport of lacrosse.
Diem Saunders (1992-2021)
Born in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, in Newfoundland and Labrador, Diem Saunders grew up in the community of Nunatsiavut. Following the tragic murder of her sister Loretta in 2014, she became a leading voice in the fight for justice and the rights of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
A key figure in this cause, Diem testified in 2017 before the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, denouncing systemic injustices and honouring her sister’s memory. That same year, her activism was recognized by Amnesty International, which awarded her the Ambassador of Conscience Award.
Diem has left behind a legacy of courage and solidarity, notably through the creation of the Loretta Saunders Community Scholarship Fund, which supports Indigenous women pursuing postsecondary education in Mi’kma’ki, Nunatsiavut and the Atlantic provinces.
Bill Wilson (1944-2025)
A hereditary Chief of the Kwakiutl, Bill Wilson (Hemas Kla-Lee-Lee-Kla) was a prominent and highly respected political figure at the national level. He was a major source of inspiration for Indigenous children, particular those studying law, as he was the second First Nations person to graduate from the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Law.
One of his landmark accomplishments was his key role in the adoption of section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, which recognizes Indigenous peoples’ ancestral and treaty rights as well as the equality of Indigenous women.
Throughout his life, Bill inspired many young Indigenous leaders, including his own children, who are carrying forward his legacy of determination and cultural pride.
Alexandre McKenzie (1941-2024)
A prominent figure of the Innu Nation, Alexandre Mckenzie was a driving force behind many important achievements such as the Institut Tshakapesh, the Société aéroportuaire de Schefferville and Tshiuetin rail transportation (the first railway in Canada owned by First Nations).
Throughout his life—whether as a Chief, teacher or leader—Alexandre was deeply committed to the language and culture of his people. A true inspiration for past and future generations, he worked tirelessly for the wellness of First Nations, with a particular concern for children.
