The Human Rights Legal Support Centre’s (HRLSC) Board of Directors is proud to welcome Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige as its newest member.
Grand Council Chief Debassige was appointed to the HRLSC Board in June 2026. The HRLSC is honoured to benefit from her extensive experience in leadership, governance, and advocacy, including her roles as a member of the Chiefs of Ontario Leadership Council and the Anishinabek Nation Leadership Council.
Her longstanding commitment to public service includes serving her home community of M’Chigeeng First Nation as a councillor beginning in 2013, and later as Chief from 2015 to 2023. Throughout her career, Grand Council Chief Debassige has worked across a wide range of sectors, including treaty relations, infrastructure, water, housing, environment, policing, mental health and addictions, community safety, economic development, education, health, emergency management, and community development. She is a mother of two and a grandmother of one.
Grand Council Chief Debassige holds a master’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology from Lakehead University in Thunder Bay and a Certificate in Negotiation from Osgoode Hall Law School. Grounded in both academic training and traditional knowledge systems, as well as her lived experience, she serves as a respected knowledge keeper and voice for the Anishinabek Nation. She has frequently appeared before the Ontario Legislature to advocate for self-governance, resource jurisdiction, and access to clean drinking water for communities across Turtle Island.
The HRLSC is excited to welcome her expertise and insight, which will be invaluable in advancing the organization’s 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, including its ongoing commitment to reconciliation. The Board also extends its sincere gratitude to departing member Evelyn Ball for her dedicated service and many contributions. Her leadership will be greatly missed, and the HRLSC looks forward to building on this strong foundation with its new Board member.