Thursday, November 14, 2019
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My first conversation with Maurina was by phone when she told me she was taking the Federal Government to court to make sure Jeremy and other children got the help they deserved under Jordan's Principle. The pictures were taken the day she was cross-examined but the government- Maurina was clear, calm and strong and there was no doubt Canada had met its match. Outside the hearing room, Maurina and the rest of us could hear community members drumming for her and after the hearing was done she went outside to join them. Not long after, in 2013, the Federal Court agreed with Maurina and ordered Canada to provide services under Jordan's Principle. Three years later, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal agreed with the Federal Court and ordered Canada to help all First Nations children by implementing Jordan's Principle. Thanks to Jordan, his family, Maurina, and other strong parents and advocates, over 250,000 services and products were provided to kids in need this past year. I will miss this strong, stubborn (but in the best way), and loving woman. She was justice and her spirit inspires me every day. My thoughts and prayers to her family, many friends and Pictou Landing First Nation. Maurina made a huge difference for kids!
