Charles Weaselhead of the Blood Tribe is one of the newest members of the Order of Canada.
Governor General Mary Simon last month announced 83 new appointments to the Order of Canada.
“The Order of Canada recognizes individuals who have made positive and lasting impacts on communities here in Canada or who have brought honour to our country abroad,” the Governor General said. “As we progress towards an Order that is reflective of Canada’s full diversity, I encourage all Canadians to nominate individuals who inspire them, from all walks of life and backgrounds.”
“Congratulations to the new appointees and thank you to the nominators who cast a spotlight on their achievement, purpose and exceptional talent.”
Established in 1967, the Order of Canada celebrates outstanding achievements and extraordinary contributions.
Over the years, its members have been honoured for inspiring innovation, for shaping who we are, and for enriching Canada’s fabric.
“Charles Weaselhead has brought Canadians together across sectors and has helped advance reconciliation,” the announcement read. “As CEO of the Blood Tribe Department of Health, he formed a long-standing partnership with the Canadian Red Cross and, as chief of the Blood Tribe and Treaty 7 Grand Chief, he launched new social, health and education initiatives.”
“The first Indigenous chancellor of Lethbridge University, he has also been a leader with the Aboriginal Healing Foundation.”
Weaselhead was named the University of Lethbridge’s 14th chancellor in February 2019 and served four years in the role.
The former chief of the Blood Tribe and Treaty 7 grand chief, Weaselhead is a survivor of residential schooling and devoted his life to promoting health, education and economic development issues for Indigenous people.
During Weaselhead’s tenure as chancellor, the University launched its ELeV initiative, a unique and innovative partnership between the Blackfoot Confederacy, University of Lethbridge and the Mastercard Foundation to support and enable Indigenous youth to achieve their goals and become leaders in their communities.
The Governor General’s appointments include one companion, 16 officers, two honourary officers and 64 members. Two appointments are promotions within the order.
The Order of Canada recognizes people across all sectors of society who have made extraordinary and sustained contributions to our nation.
The motto of the Order, Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam, translates to, “They desire a better country.”
Appointments are made by the governor general on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada.
A member or an officer of the Order of Canada can be promoted to a higher level if they demonstrate further exceptional achievement. A person can only be promoted five years after the last appointment.
Charles Weaselhead, a former Blood Tribe Chief and Treaty 7 Grand Chief was appointed to the Order of Canada by Governor General Mary Simon.
