THUNDER BAY -- The first class of graduates from Lakehead University's Bora Laskin Faculty of Law will be called to the Bar Friday in Toronto.
Thirty-six graduates have successfully completed the Bar examination and will participate in Friday's ceremony.
The first class graduated in May, and after the ceremony the graduates will be able to practice law.
The Bora Laskin Faculty of Law is the only law school in Northern Ontario.
Dean Angelique EagleWoman said it was created in part because there is a lack of lawyers in northern Ontario and many are close to retirement.
She added that approximately 55 per cent of the graduates from the first class will practice in northern Ontario.
The school also specializes in Indigenous law and Eaglewoman said now more than ever, there is a need for lawyers versed in Aboriginal affairs.
Eaglewoman said it’s a moment to talk about the needs for Aboriginal communities to have self-government.
“We need lawyers who are able to step forward and help with those processes,” she said.
“To make sure there’s law available to support these frameworks as we are developing better relationships between Aboriginal peoples and the Canadian government.”
Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler will be receiving an honorary degree at Friday's ceremony
(TBT News)
