Will Morin facts for kids

Will Morin is a Canadian politician and artist. He was the leader of the First Peoples National Party of Canada from 2010 until the party stopped existing in 2013. He is known for his work as an artist and for supporting Indigenous rights in politics.

Early Life and Education

Will Morin was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. He is a member of the Michipicoten First Nation, which is an Indigenous community.

Military Service and Studies

Morin served as a medical assistant in the Canadian Forces. This was during the 1991 Gulf War. After his military service, he went to university.

He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. He studied at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design in Halifax. Later, he got a Bachelor of Arts degree in Native Studies. He also earned a Master of Arts degree in humanities. Both of these degrees were from Laurentian University.

Career and Community Work

Today, Will Morin works as a teacher and artist. He is also a cultural consultant in Sudbury. He has always been a strong supporter of local artists.

He helped start the White Mountain Academy of the Arts. He also served on the board of the Sudbury Arts Council. In 2003, he suggested creating a community arts center in downtown Sudbury. His own art has been shown in different places across Canada.

Political Journey

Will Morin became involved in politics while he was in university. He was the Eastern Regional Representative for Aboriginal Students. This was with the Canadian Federation of Students. He also became president of the Young Liberals Association at Cambrian College.

Joining the First Peoples National Party

Later, Morin joined the First Peoples National Party of Canada (FPNP). He was the first person nominated to run for public office for this party. This happened on December 28, 2005.

Running in Elections

Morin ran as a candidate for the FPNP in several federal elections.

• In 2006, he ran in Algoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing.
• In 2008 and 2011, he ran in Sudbury.

In both the 2006 and 2008 elections, he received the most votes compared to other FPNP candidates. In 2011, he was the only candidate for the party.

Standing Up for Indigenous Voices

In 2008, Morin explained his campaign goals. He wanted to promote Indigenous values. He also fought for Indigenous people to be more involved in the political process.

During the 2008 election, he was not allowed to join a debate on a radio station called CIGM. Because of this, candidates from the four main political parties chose not to participate. They boycotted the debate to show their support for Morin. Even though he did not get many votes, Morin felt he achieved his goals after the election.

Participating in Protests

Morin has also taken part in protests to support Indigenous rights.

• In 2006, he supported a road blockade by the Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation in Brant.
• In 2008, he protested against the Canadian Pacific Spirit Train. This train was meant to promote the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Many protesters believed the games were happening on land that belonged to Indigenous peoples.