Indigenous Bar Association appoints Stuart Wuttke to the Indigenous Peoples Counsel

The Indigenous Bar Association in Canada (IBA) has appointed Stuart Wuttke to the Indigenous Peoples Counsel (IPC) designation.

The honour recognizes distinguished Indigenous legal professionals for outstanding contributions to advancing Indigenous law, rights, and governance.

Stuart Wuttke, a member of the Manitoba Bar since 1996 and the Ontario Bar since 2006, has significantly contributed to Indigenous advocacy, law, and policy reform. According to the IBA, his appointment reflects a lifelong commitment to promoting Indigenous jurisdiction, equity, and self-determination.

Currently serving as general counsel at the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Wuttke has played a role in advancing landmark legal initiatives. These include the implementation of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (2006) and a recent agreement in principle addressing discrimination against Indigenous children and youth (2022). He also helped shape federal child and family services legislation that prioritizes rights-based approaches.

“Stuart’s appointment to the IPC designation is a testament to his relentless dedication to Indigenous advocacy and his profound impact on the Indigenous legal community,” said Drew Lafond, president of the IBA. “He exemplifies the values and integrity central to the IPC designation, and his work is an inspiration to all those committed to exercising Indigenous jurisdiction and advancing justice for our communities. The IBA is proud to stand beside Stuart in his journey, and we congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.”

The IBA noted that Wuttke’s career reflected not only his legal acumen but also his dedication to mentorship and public service. He supports Indigenous and non-Indigenous lawyers in their efforts to advocate for Indigenous and human rights, fostering a generation of professionals dedicated to meaningful reconciliation.

The IPC designation, awarded by the IBA, acknowledges individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Indigenous legal community while promoting justice and equality. According to the IBA, Wuttke joins a distinguished cohort of leaders committed to strengthening Indigenous voices and integrating Indigenous laws and knowledge systems into Canada’s legal framework.