NORTH BAY – A new environmental law non-profit has opened its doors in Northern Ontario and is inviting the public to its launch event aboard the Chief Commanda on Lake Nipissing in North Bay on September 29th.
Legal Advocates for Nature’s Defence (LAND) is dedicated to advancing access to justice and advocates for the protection of nature and honouring of Indigenous sovereignty and treaty in law. Based in Robinson Huron Treaty territory, the organization was founded in 2023 by Kerrie Blaise, an accomplished environmental and Indigenous rights lawyer and Chair of the Board, Randy Restoule, a dedicated lands and consultation advisor from Dokis First Nation.
“LAND was founded to fill a vitally important niche,” shared founder Kerrie Blaise, “Being responsive to the unmet legal needs of Indigenous nations and grassroots organizers across the North who are on the front lines of environment and climate injustices.”
“LAND is about connecting, working with communities, and sharing our experience to respond to the nature and biodiversity crises we see around us,” shared Board Chair Randy Restoule. “We want to model how, as a law organization, Indigenous laws and practices are critical to the solution.”
As a non-profit, LAND relies on donations to provide pro bono legal services and support for initiatives that help advance the two most critical of targets for our planet: cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 to combat climate and protecting 30% of lands and waters by 2030 to halt biodiversity loss.
Participate in nature’s protection by joining LAND for its launch event. The event will feature an evening cruise aboard the Chief Commanda II including an opening by the Home Fire drummers, guest speakers including Ken Wu of the Endangered Ecosystems Alliance, and catering by the local Block Public House.
To purchase tickets and for full event details visit: naturesdefence.eventbrite.com
Media Contacts
Kerrie Blaise, Founder and Legal Counsel
kerrie@naturesdefence.ca
705-978-4034