On September 10 we will welcome John Brown LLB presenting “The Catholic Church, Residential Schools and Indigenous Spirituality”. John is a distinguished legal professional who earned his law degree from the University of Toronto and was admitted to the bar in 1983. Currently, John is a key member of the legal team at McCarthy Tetrault, where he serves as a legal and strategic advisor for Indigenous Initiatives. His dedication to reconciliation is evident through his role as the chair of McCarthy Tetrault’s Reconciliation Committee.
John is also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of legal professionals, through the McCarthy Tetrault Family Initiative Mentorship Program for Indigenous Students. He contributes his expertise as a member of the Advisory Council for the Indigenous Human Rights Clinic, and for the Gilwedin Anang Council of Aboriginal Legal Services.
John’s influence extends to his participation on the Advisory Board of LEAP/Pecault Centre for Social Impact, the Canadian Bar Association Indigenous Advisory Group, and the Indigenous Bar Association.
John was a senior member of the legal team at McCarthy Tétrault representing First Nations people across the country in two class action lawsuits against Canada that were brought to compel Canada to provide safe, clean drinking water to all First Nations.
John’s family on his father’s side is rooted in the Sto:lo Nation, whose traditional territory lies in the Fraser River Valley in British Columbia. His personal and professional journey reflects a deep commitment to Indigenous rights and reconciliation.
His recent publication, “A Firm Route to Reconciliation,” further underscores his dedication to advancing meaningful change within the legal community and beyond.
More about John P. Brown and his legal career at mccarthy.ca/en/people/john-brown