A Mi’kmaq lawyer from Newfoundland and Labrador has been named to the Senate.

Judy White, born and raised in Flat Bay, brings a commendable background in human rights issues, Indigenous governance, and legislative matters.

Prior to this appointment, she served as an assistant deputy minister of Indigenous Affairs in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In 2019, she made history as the first Indigenous woman to assume the position of Chair at the province’s Human Rights Commission. Moreover, she held the position of Director General of Indigenous Services Canada.

Senate appointment recommendations are made to the prime minister by an independent advisory board that reviews submissions.

Premier Andrew Furey offered his congratulations to White.

He looks forward to working with her to address the concerns of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians at the federal level.