Franco-Ontarian member of First Nation tapped for court

‘If you have a goal, work hard and never give up’

Mistakes have been my teachers. And I have learned from those mistakes.

The newest member of the Supreme Court of Canada says her journey has not been an easy one, but it has been meaningful and rewarding.

Members of the legal community, including fellow justices, welcomed Michelle O’Bonsawin to the top court in a ceremony Monday.

O’Bonsawin, who replaced the retiring Michael Moldaver on Sept. 1, is a bilingual Franco-Ontarian and an Abenaki member of the Odanak First Nation.

“I hope that my journey to this court will inspire young women to pursue their dreams,” she told attendees at the Supreme Court building in Ottawa.

“I am a big believer that, if you have a goal, work hard and never give up, you can make things happen and achieve those dreams.”

O’Bonsawin said she has made mistakes and fallen down at times.

“However, mistakes have been my teachers. And I have learned from those mistakes. I have always gotten up and continued, at times with trepidation, but always moving forward,” the outgoing Ontario Superior Court judge said.

“Our actions are reflections of ourselves. We must be proud of who we are and of our uniqueness.”

O’Bonsawin thanked the many people who supported, encouraged and mentored her along the way.

Richard Wagner, the Supreme Court’s chief justice, praised O’Bonsawin’s generosity and volunteer activities, noting she shares his passion for open courts, access to justice and education.