Alexis Wawanoloath facts for kids

Alexis Wawanoloath, born on July 15, 1982, is a lawyer who works to protect the rights of Indigenous peoples. He is also a former politician from Quebec, Canada. He was a member of the National Assembly of Quebec, representing the area of Abitibi-Est. Alexis is a proud member of the Abenaki First Nation.

Who is Alexis Wawanoloath?

Alexis Wawanoloath is known for his work in law and politics. He has dedicated his career to supporting Indigenous communities. He is also a descendant of Gray Lock, an important historical figure.

Early Life and Education

Alexis Wawanoloath was born in Val-d'Or, Quebec. His parents are Christine Sioui-Wawanoloath and Gaston Larouche. He studied at the Cégep de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue.

Before becoming a lawyer, Alexis worked in different roles. He was a social work technician at a school board. He also worked as an educator at a child daycare centre. Later, he became a host for a youth centre for Indigenous people in Val-d'Or. He was also the president of the youth Indigenous council. He served as an administrator at the Abitibi-Témiscamingue youth forum.

A Career in Politics

In 2007, Alexis Wawanoloath made history. He became the first Indigenous person ever elected to the National Assembly of Quebec since Ludger Bastien. He won against the Liberal candidate, Pierre Corbeil, in the 2007 elections.

After his election, he was chosen by André Boisclair to be the Parti Québécois critic for youth. This meant he would speak for his party on issues important to young people. He ran for re-election in the 2008 election but was defeated by Pierre Corbeil.

Even after leaving the National Assembly, Alexis continued to be involved in his community. On December 1, 2013, he was elected as a councillor for the Abenakis of Odanak council.

Championing Indigenous Rights and Media Work

Alexis Wawanoloath continued his education and completed his law studies. He attended the Université de Sherbrooke. By June 2021, he had earned a Bachelor of Laws degree and completed Bar School.

Today, he is a lawyer specializing in the rights of Indigenous peoples. He works at a law firm called Neashish & Champoux. He also teaches about Indigenous peoples' law at Laval University.

Beyond his legal work, Alexis is also involved in communications. He contributes to news programs like Noovo Le Fil and the Debaters of Noovo. He also co-hosts a weekly radio show called Kwé-Bonjour on Canal M.