b'Photo by Declan Keogh.Ultimately, I think every water body should have this status. We can start small and build momentum. Change happens one at a time. Chief Taynar SimpsonMore than supportive, people areAnd Chief Simpson isnt stoppingHis message is one of hope. energized to see this movement succeed.at Rice Lake. He has taken it uponUltimately, I think every water body Alderville has received pro bono legalhimself to teach other Indigenous peopleshould have this status. We can start and policy advice from the Internationalabout pursuing legal personhood for thesmall and build momentum, he says. Observatory on Natures Rights, whichenvironment. This work has taken himChange happens one at a time.worked on the Muteshekau-Shipu case.all over, from the Anishinabek NationThat optimism seems contagious.Tom Jackson, Cree singer, North of 60Water Consortium and the Chiefs ofWalpole Island First Nation is aiming actor and former chancellor for nearbyOntarios Great Lakes Gathering to theto build on this momentum. Councillor Trent University, raised $20,000 to helpUnited Nations General Assembly inCharlene Altiman says her community the Nation pursue the case. New York and COP30 in Brazil. is still in the early stages of the process Wabano Is Hiring, Come Make a Difference!Are you an Indigenous professional with a passion for community, culture, and healing? Wabano Centre is looking for dynamic individuals who walk in both worldsbringing together traditional Indigenous knowledge and Western approaches to wellness through a Two-Eyed Seeing lens.Were hiring: NursePractitioners CaseManagers OutreachWorkersThis is more than a jobits a calling. Be part of something deeply meaningful and rooted in culture. Help support and uplift the Indigenous community in Ottawa by bringing your gifts, your knowledge, and your heart to the work we do every day.Honour our ways. Lead with purpose.Joinour Apply today at wabano.com/careers or send your resume to jobs@wabano.com.team! Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.I ssue2 2025/26C hIefs ofo ntarIoA dvocAte magazIne l 17'