Officer of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: November 19, 2018
• Invested on: May 08, 2019

Leroy Robert Little Bear, O.C., A.O.E.
Lethbridge, Alberta
Grounded in learning and wisdom, Leroy Little Bear champions Indigenous perspectives and traditions. A Blackfoot scholar, he advocates for Indigenous peoples’ access to education, notably as the founder of pioneering native studies programs at the University of Lethbridge and Harvard University. More recently, he and his wife were instrumental in the signing of the Buffalo Treaty, which aims to revitalize Plains Indian culture. He also pushed for the recognition and protection of Indigenous rights by the United Nations and under the Canadian constitution. A beloved mentor, he has inspired generations of students.