Creating Connections

By: Amy Fedeski, FSWC French Educator

Justice Harry LaForme

Harry LaForme is a member of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and one of Canada's most groundbreaking jurists. Born on October 31, 1946 and raised on a reserve in southern Ontario, LaForme struggled with his Indigenous identity growing up, but his experiences as a basketball coach for Indigenous youth inspired him to embrace his heritage and pursue a career advocating for marginalized communities.

After graduating from Osgoode Hall Law School in 1977 — at a time when there were only four Indigenous lawyers in Canada — he was called to the Bar in 1979. Following a brief period in corporate law, LaForme established one of the country’s first legal practices focused on Indigenous rights.

In 2004, he became the first Indigenous judge appointed to a Canadian appellate court when he joined the Ontario Court of Appeal. His progressive rulings included a landmark case supporting same-sex marriage and legal access to medical cannabis, decisions shaped by his understanding of marginalization.

In addition, LaForme has served as Commissioner of the Indian Commission of Ontario and Chair of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Land Claims. He has taught Indigenous Law at his alma mater and his work has been published in many legal journals.

LaForme is the recipient of numerous honours, including the National Aboriginal Achievement Award and multiple honorary doctorates. In 2010, he was an Olympic Torch carrier for the 2010 Canada Winter Olympic Games, while in 2022, he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada for his contributions to Indigenous rights and civil liberties.

In 2024, at FSWC’s annual Spirit of Hope gala in Toronto, the organization paid tribute to LaForme as an ally of the Jewish community for standing up against antisemitism.

Justice LaForme’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to justice, reconciliation and the betterment of underrepresented communities in Canada.

More information: https://www.oktlaw.com/team-members/harry-laforme/