“Trust in the justice system must be earned. Chief Justice Joyal has acknowledged that the courts must continue to listen, learn, and evolve to address the lived realities of First Nations people. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is encouraged by his dedication to creating a more equitable and accessible justice system for all.”
– Grand Chief Jerry Daniels
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23, 2026
ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) congratulates the Honourable Chief Justice Glenn D. Joyal on his nomination to the Supreme Court of Canada.
In his role as Chief Justice of the Court of King’s Bench of Manitoba, Chief Justice Joyal has demonstrated a strong commitment to strengthening relationships between the judiciary and First Nations.
“The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is pleased to learn that Chief Justice Joyal has been nominated to fulfill a role with the Supreme Court of Canada,” said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “For many years, Chief Justice Joyal has shown a willingness to engage with First Nations, hear our concerns, and work toward meaningful change within the justice system. His approach reflects the understanding that reconciliation requires action, humility, and a commitment to building trust.”
Under Chief Justice Joyal’s leadership, the Court of King’s Bench of Manitoba advanced efforts toward judicial reconciliation. This includes establishing the Trust, Reconciliation and Access to Justice Committee, which responds to the Calls to Action set out by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
Through meaningful engagement with First Nations leaders, and Elders, Chief Justice Joyal demonstrated the importance of listening to First Nations perspectives to understand how the justice system can better serve First Nation citizens. His work recognizes the lasting impacts of colonial policies, systemic discrimination, and barriers that First Nations citizens continue to face when seeking justice.
“Trust in the justice system must be earned,” added Grand Chief Daniels. “Chief Justice Joyal has acknowledged that the courts must continue to listen, learn, and evolve to address the lived realities of First Nations people. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is encouraged by his dedication to creating a more equitable and accessible justice system for all.”
SCO looks forward to seeing Chief Justice Joyal continue to bring his experience, wisdom, and commitment to fairness to Canada’s highest court. This appointment marks an important opportunity to continue advancing a justice system that upholds the rights, voices, and lived experiences of First Nations citizens.
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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 33 First Nations and more than 92,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.
For media inquiries:
Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca