Pamela Palmater facts for kids

Pamela Palmater, born in 1970, is a proud Mi'kmaq lawyer and professor from New Brunswick, Canada. She teaches about politics and public administration at Toronto Metropolitan University. Pam is also a well-known voice on TV, sharing her thoughts on important legal and political topics. You might have seen her on shows like APTN's InFocus, CTV, or CBC.

Growing Up: Pam Palmater's Early Life

Pamela Palmater's family comes from a place called Eel River in New Brunswick. She is a member of the Eel River Bar First Nation. When Pam was young, her parents moved the family to the St. Mary's area in Fredericton. They hoped this move would give their children a better life. After her parents separated, Pam lived in Fredericton with her mother and two sisters for several years.

Pam's Journey in Education

Pamela Palmater worked hard in school. In 1994, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Thomas University. She studied both Native Studies and History. Then, in 1997, she received her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of New Brunswick.

Her studies continued at Dalhousie University. In 1999, she earned a Master's degree in Aboriginal Law. Later, in 2009, Pam completed her Doctorate in Aboriginal Law from Dalhousie University Law School. Her important research for her doctorate was called "Beyond Blood: Rethinking Aboriginal Identity and Belonging".

Pam Palmater's Career and Advocacy

Pamela Palmater is very involved with the Assembly of First Nations. This is an organization that represents First Nations people in Canada. She leads the Centre for Indigenous Governance at Toronto Metropolitan University. There, she is a professor in the Department of Politics and Public Administration.

Before becoming a professor, she worked for the Canadian government for over ten years. She was a director at Indian and Northern Affairs. In this role, she managed important projects related to First Nations treaties, land claims, and self-government.

In 2012, Pam ran for the position of National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. She came in second place. Throughout her career, Pam has been a strong voice for Indigenous issues. She has especially highlighted the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women. Her dedication to social justice has earned her many awards.

Awards and Recognition

Pamela Palmater has received many awards for her important work and advocacy:

• 2012: YWCA Toronto Woman of Distinction Award in Social Justice
• 2012: Women's Courage Award in Social Justice
• 2012: Bertha Wilson Honour Society (she was one of the first people to be included)
• 2013: Top 25 Most Influential Lawyer: Top 5 in Human Rights
• 2014: Canada's Top Visionary Women Leaders: Top 23
• 2014: Building a Better World Designation: Nation-Builder
• 2015: UNB Alumni Award of Distinction
• 2016: Ryerson's Aboriginal Role Model
• 2016: 21 Inspirational First Nation, Métis, Inuit Women Leaders
• 2016: J.S. Woodsworth Woman of Excellence Award in Human Rights and Equality
• 2016: Margaret Mead Award in Social Justice
• 2017: Doctor of Laws honoris causa (an honorary law degree)
• 2017: Award for Excellence in Human Rights