Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: November 22, 2019
• Invested on: November 03, 2022

The Honourable James Cowan, C.M., K.C.
Halifax, Nova Scotia and Ottawa, Ontario

James Cowan is both a staunch defender of human rights and a model of community service. A lawyer and former senator, he was a driving force behind the passage of the Genetic Non-Discrimination Act, which prevents the misuse of information derived from genetic testing. He also focused attention on medical assistance in dying and the criminal justice system’s approach to persons suffering from mental illness. A long-serving member of the board of Dalhousie University, he has led numerous civic, health and educational groups, and is the current chair of Dying with Dignity Canada.