RECONCILIATION
SPEAKERS BUREAU
JEFFREY COPENACE
Jeff Copenace, Anishinaabe from Treaty #3 and Chief of the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation, has extensive government experience, having worked at both Parliament Hill and Queen's Park, as well as with Indigenous political organizations like Grand Council Treaty #3 and the Assembly of First Nations. A graduate of Carleton University, Jeff is committed to advocating for Indigenous rights and has led initiatives on issues such as environmental protection, mental wellness, and addictions, while also being a strong voice for recovery and addressing the intergenerational impacts of residential schools.
MY STORY
I am Jeffrey, an Anishinaabe from Treaty #3, with ancestral roots from the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation, and I proudly serve as the elected Chief of my community. Born and raised in the heart of Treaty #3, I carry a deep connection to my heritage and responsibilities to protect our people, lands, and culture. Throughout my career, I have worked with both government and Indigenous organizations to advocate for policies and initiatives that support the rights and well-being of our communities. From my early days on Parliament Hill in Ottawa to Queen’s Park in Toronto, I’ve gained invaluable experience navigating the political landscape, working with Indigenous governments, and representing the voices of our people in key decision-making processes.
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I have a strong commitment to my own community, where I’ve focused on addressing the needs of our people, particularly the younger generation. As Chief of the Ojibways of Onigaming, I led initiatives to protect our natural environment, fight against the exploitation of our waters and lands, and implement mental health and wellness programs for our children and families. One of my primary focuses was creating trauma-informed addiction strategies and life-promotion activities for our youth, including cultural, recreational, and family unification programs. I ran for Chief with a platform aimed at improving the quality of life for our members through practical, holistic approaches to community wellness.
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My personal journey has been shaped by my recovery from addiction and the ongoing healing from the intergenerational trauma caused by residential schools. I am now almost six years sober, and I continue to speak publicly about my experiences, advocating for others who are healing from similar struggles. I am also passionate about educating and mentoring others in our community to ensure that they don’t feel alone in their recovery, while also addressing the lasting effects of colonization that continue to affect our people.
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Alongside my leadership and advocacy work, I have had the privilege of serving as a consultant, collaborating with organizations like the Ottawa Senators to foster better relationships with Indigenous Peoples and improve cultural awareness. In my consulting role, I played a key part in drafting a territorial acknowledgment for the Senators’ home games and organizing a historic puck-drop ceremony that featured key Indigenous leaders. My work also included supporting the Assembly of First Nations' election strategy in the Yukon, helping to ensure that Indigenous voices were heard in federal elections.
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I am deeply committed to ensuring that the next generation of Indigenous leaders, youth, and families have the support and resources they need to thrive. My journey has taught me the power of perseverance, healing, and community building, and I continue to dedicate my efforts toward creating a future where Indigenous Peoples can flourish with pride, dignity, and opportunity.