Dr. Judith Sayers. Photo courtesy of Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council
The president of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council in Port Alberni, Dr. Judith Sayers, has been appointed as a Member to the Order of Canada.
Governor General of Canada Julie Payette made the announcement Friday, Dr. Sayers one of two appointee’s from Vancouver Island out of the 125 new appointments.
She is being recognized for her contributions to advancing clean energy projects in her community, and for her role as a “champion” of sustainable development in Indigenous communities.
Dr. Sayers, a mother of two, worked as a Strategic Adviser to First Nations and corporations, and is an adjunct professor at the Peter Gustavson School of Business and Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria.
She has also worked in international forums, lobbying governments and other agencies for the promotion and protection of First Nations rights and title.
She was first elected Chief of the Hupacasath First Nation for 14 years and was also the Chief Negotiator for 15 years.
Dr. Sayers was elected as the new president of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council in September 2017.
She has a business and law degree, and an honorary Doctor of Law from Queen’s University, and has been practicing law for 18 years in both Alberta and British Columbia.
The other recipient is Robert Joseph from Alert Bay, and is being recognized for his distinguished pan-Canadian leadership, as a voice for reconciliation between Indigenous and non‑Indigenous people.
The Order of Canada is one of Canada’s highest civilian honours, and recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.
Recipients will be invited to accept their insignia at a ceremony to be held at a later date.
Julian Kolsut
