David C. Nahwegahbow, LLB ’80, is the 2021 winner of The Advocates’ Society Award of Justice

By Common Law

Communication, Faculty of Law

Faculty of Law - Common Law Section
Awards and recognition
David C. Nahwegahbow, LLB ’80, is the 2021 winner of The Advocates’ Society Award of Justice

David C. Nahwegahbow, IPC, LSM, LLB ’80, of Nahwegahbow, Corbiere Genoodmagejig, is the 2021 recipient of The Advocates’ Society Award of Justice. Nahwegahbow, a member of the Common Law Honour Society, received his award during the virtual End of Term, on June 17, 2021.

As stated on The Advocates’ Society’s website:

“The Advocates' Society Award of Justice is intended to honour advocates who exemplify the finest traditions of advocacy in representing members of our society whose cause may be politically or socially unpopular or against the mainstream, and who make a substantial contribution to achieving the goal of social justice by championing the rights and liberties that are the foundation of democracy.”

Mr. Nahwegahbow’s profile on The Advocates’ Society’ website states:

“Nahwegahbow is from Whitefish River First Nation, which is part of the Anishinabek Nation.  The founding partner of the Firm, Mr. Nahwegahbow did his undergraduate studies at Carleton University and graduated from the Faculty of Law, Common Law Section at the University of Ottawa in 1980 and was called to the Bar in Ontario in 1982.

“Nahwegahbow is a founding member and former President of the Indigenous Bar Association (IBA); and in 2003, he received the "IPC" designation (Indigenous Peoples' Counsel) from the IBA in recognition for his advocacy work on behalf of Indigenous peoples.  He received a National Aboriginal Achievement Award for Law and Justice in 2008.  Shortly thereafter, he was presented with the Anishinabek Lifetime Achievement Award from the Union of Ontario Indians which recognizes the dedication of individuals who have devoted their lives to the service of their communities and the Anishinabek Nation.  In 2010, Mr. Nahwegahbow was inducted into the Common Law Honour Society of the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Law, the Common Law's Section most prestigious Alumni distinction, paying tribute to the Faculty's most accomplished graduates. 

“On May 25, 2011 he received the Law Society Medal, an award granted by the Law Society to selected lawyers who have made a significant contribution to the profession.”

Congratulations!