Matthew Coon Come facts for kids

Matthew Coon Come, born on April 13, 1956, is an important Canadian leader and activist. He is a member of the Cree First Nation. From 2000 to 2003, he served as the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. This is a big role, representing many Indigenous groups across Canada.

He was born near Mistissini, Quebec. As a child, he attended a residential school in LaTuque, Quebec. Later, he went to university to study political science at Trent University. He also studied law at McGill University.

Leading the Cree Nation

In 1987, Matthew Coon Come was chosen as the Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees in Quebec. This meant he was the main leader for the Cree people in that area. He became well-known around the world for working hard to protect the basic rights of First Nations people.

Protecting the Land

One of his most famous efforts was fighting against the James Bay Project. This was a large plan by the Quebec government to build many dams for electricity. These dams would have flooded huge areas of traditional Cree land. Matthew Coon Come helped lead the campaign to stop or change these plans. He wanted to make sure the Cree way of life and their land were protected.

Awards and Honours

Matthew Coon Come has received several important awards for his work. In 1995, he was given a National Aboriginal Achievement Award. This award celebrates the achievements of Indigenous people in Canada.

He has also been given two special university degrees called honorary degrees. These are given to people who have made great contributions, even if they didn't study for that specific degree.

Honorary Degrees

Country	Date	School	Degree
Canada	1998	Trent University	Doctor of Laws (LL.D)
Canada	2000	University of Toronto	Doctor of Laws (LL.D)