Grand Chief Dr. Sydney Garrioch, LL.D

Grand Chief Dr. Sydney Garrioch, LL.D

Member and former Board Chair of the Board of Directors
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority

Grand Chief Dr. Sydney Garrioch, LL.D: A Visionary Leader and Advocate for First Nations Rights

Born and raised in the heart of Pimicikamak Cree Nation, Grand Chief Sydney Garrioch emerged as a stalwart figure, embracing the traditions and teachings of his Ninowew (Cree) ancestors. Under the nurturing care of his grandparents, he imbibed the essence of a traditional lifestyle-trapping, fishing, and harmonizing with the land. Today, his legacy of leadership, wisdom, and dedication to his people resonates as a beacon of hope and empowerment.

Grand Chief Garrioch is a man deeply rooted in family values. Together with his loving wife, Martha, they have raised two children and have been blessed with the joy of five grandchildren. The ancestral language of Ninowew continues to flow effortlessly through his veins, a testament to his commitment to preserving and passing on the invaluable customs, teachings, and traditions to future generations.

Sydney's journey was destined for greatness, as he was inspired and guided by the wisdom of his family, elders, and community. Recognizing his potential to become a leader, they urged him to excel in mainstream academic institutions, preparing him for a role of profound influence among his people. He diligently pursued his education in Dauphin, Manitoba, and completed his studies at the esteemed University of Manitoba in Winnipeg.

After completing his studies at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Sydney Garrioch returned home to Pimicikimak Cree Nation, fueled with a deep desire to make a lasting impact as a leader. His unwavering dedication to his community and his commitment to lifelong learning led him to pursue further academic achievements. In 1996, he achieved the distinct honor of receiving a Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) degree from Victoria University of British Columbia in Canada, solidifying his reputation as a scholar and visionary leader. This academic accomplishment further enriched his perspective and empowered him to shape the future of his people with wisdom and foresight.

Returning to his cherished homeland of Pimicikimak Cree Nation, Sydney embarked on a transformative journey to redefine the future of his community. In 1981, he took his first step towards leadership by being chosen as a Band Councillor, embracing a multifaceted role that encompassed housing, education, and health. Through his unwavering dedication, he gradually earned the trust and admiration of his constituents, culminating in his election as Chief of the Pimicikamak Cree Nation in 1989.

Over the course of eight remarkable years, Grand Chief Garrioch skillfully transformed his community into a progressive and independent nation. He laid the foundations for a new era of Cree governance systems, fostering self-sufficiency, and instilling a sense of pride in his people. His peers soon recognized his extraordinary knowledge, expertise, and leadership strengths, leading to his appointment as a representative of the First Nations people in Manitoba at regional, provincial, and national levels.

Grand Chief Garrioch's tireless efforts extended beyond his own community. He served as Co-Chair of the First Nations/Federal Government National Task Force on Non-Insured Health Benefits, leaving an indelible mark on healthcare initiatives. As a member of the National Health Commission, MKO Executive Council, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Executive Committee, Chairperson of the Awasis Agency Board of Directors, and member of the Northern Flood Committee, his commitment to effecting positive change was felt far and wide.

In 1997, Sydney's leadership journey took a momentous turn when he was appointed Vice Chief for the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), a prominent northern First Nations political organization championing inherent, treaty, aboriginal, and human rights. During his six-year tenure, he emerged as a primary negotiator, spearheading the transfer of child and family services to First Nations in Manitoba. His visionary oversight led to the creation of the Northern First Nations Child and Family Services Authority-an institution entrusted with regulating and monitoring the delivery of crucial services to the community's most vulnerable members.

Concurrently, Grand Chief Garrioch served as the First Nations' lead negotiator in the development of an agreement on children and family matters with the Federal and Provincial Governments. This groundbreaking achievement paved the way for the restoration of First Nations Jurisdiction over their children and families, rekindling the sacred flame of self-determination.

In September 2003, the grand tapestry of Sydney Garrioch's life reached another pinnacle when he was elected Grand Chief of the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak. With overwhelming support, he embarked on a three-year term to advocate for the Inherent and Treaty Rights of First Nations, while tirelessly striving to enhance the quality of life for his people. Recognizing the power of collaboration, he forged strong partnerships with the governments of Canada and Manitoba, ensuring the voices and aspirations of MKO First Nations were not only heard but effectively translated into tangible results.

Grand Chief Garrioch embodies the unwavering spirit of positive change. His profound dedication to his people, his tireless pursuit of justice, and his relentless efforts to protect and promote the Inherent and Treaty Rights of First Nations have earned him admiration and respect. His indomitable spirit resonates as a guiding light, illuminating the path to a brighter future where MKO First Nations' political aspirations are not only represented but fully realized.

In addition to his many accomplishments, Grand Chief Dr. Sydney Garrioch also served as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority for many years. In this role, he provided invaluable guidance and strategic leadership to the organization, ensuring that the authority's mission and objectives aligned with the needs and aspirations of the Northern communities it served. Even though he recently stepped down from the position of Chairperson, he remains an esteemed member of the board, continuing to contribute his wealth of knowledge and experience to shape the direction of the authority and advocate for the rights and welfare of the people it represents.