Wiiji’iwewin – Gathering as One

Dale Turner
Associate Professor

Dr. Turner is Teme-Augama Anishinaabe, an Associate Professor in Indigenous Studies and Political Science, and is the Director of the Indigenous Research Network at the University of Toronto.

Publications: This is not a peace pipe: towards a critical Indigenous philosophy (2006). Professor Turner publishes on Aboriginal rights in Canada and contemporary Indigenous intellectual culture. Recent articles focus on the role of Indigenous spirituality in contemporary Aboriginal politics.

Lindsay Borrows 
Assistant Professor

Lindsay Borrows is an Assistant Professor at Queen’s University, Faculty of Law, where she teaches special topics in the field of Indigenous law. Previously she worked as a lawyer and researcher at the Indigenous Law Research Unit (University of Victoria Faculty of Law), and as a staff lawyer at West Coast Environmental Law. In both positions she provided legal support to Indigenous communities and organizations engaged in the revitalization of their own laws for application in contemporary contexts.

Michael Paul
TAA Chief / TFN Second Chief

Michael emphasizes the importance of the Constitution, especially during meetings and elections. Reflecting on the past, he notes significant progress since the days when only community residents could vote, excluding those living on the lake with status. He is passionate about inclusivity, believing that including everyone strengthens the nation and defines our people. He values input from the community and is confident in the experienced crew working on the Constitution and looks forward to contributing to the project.

Collin Faubert
Senior Advisor, Department of Indigenous Services

Collin has served as a land claims negotiator with the federal government for over 25 years, working on land claim settlements, Indigenous consultation processes, and constitutional development with First Nations across the country. He joined the task force to give back to the community that has given him so much. Collin is especially passionate about engagement and looks forward to learning from members about their constitutional priorities

John Turner
TAA Second Chief

John Turner began his involvement in governance at the age of 21, initially working to lower the voting age to 18. Over the years, he has dabbled in various constitutional committees, contributing to the evolution and refinement of the Constitution. John is passionate about history and enjoys examining how the Constitution has changed over time. He values community feedback through surveys and other means, aiming to make decision-making processes more efficient and less prone to conflict. Now at 56, John looks forward to collaborating with the community and hopes for a successful round of constitutional updates.

Victoria McKenzie Grant
President, Moving Red Canoe

Vicky Grant is enthusiastic about joining the Constitution Task Force and is committed to ensuring community engagement in the process. Vicky believes that building a strong Temagami First Nation community requires collective effort and participation. She acknowledges that the process takes time but is eager to see it move forward and contribute to the group’s work.

Virginia Paul
Social Services Supervisor

Virginia Paul is a dedicated member of the constitutional task force, with over 30 years of experience in constitutional matters. She learned the ropes from the elders in the community during voting and decision-making processes. Virginia has held various roles, including Indian Band Secretary and Membership Clerk, and was trained in elections. She is passionate about the Constitution and its significance to the community, ensuring that our rules are tailored to our needs rather than falling under the Indian Act. Virginia’s extensive knowledge and experience make her a valuable asset to the task force.

Luke Potts
Student, Queens University

Luke Potts is an enthusiastic member of the Constitution Task Force who is deeply committed to the project. As the youngest member of the committee, he provides a crucial youth perspective on action plans and serves as a key contact for youth outreach. His role is vital in ensuring that every demographic on Bear Island is reached and heard during the community’s process of revitalizing the Constitution. Luke emphasizes the importance of the Constitution in promoting community sovereignty, especially with upcoming negotiations with the federal government. He is honoured to contribute to this effort and looks forward to working closely with the community to achieve our collective goals.