Tasha Simon, a proud Algonquin Anishinaabekwe and member of the Kebaowek First Nation, has a story that mixes perseverance, dedication and cultural pride. An alumna of the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Law, Tasha has focused her career on now fostering a supportive and welcoming community for Indigenous law students as the Indigenous programs specialist at the Faculty.
Tasha’s journey to this position is rooted in her personal and professional experience.
Reconnecting with culture
Tasha holds a law clerk diploma from Canadore College, and a BA earned through night classes at Nipissing University. While waiting for word about being accepted into law school at uOttawa, Tasha’s resolve to pursue law was tested when her father passed away. The acceptance letter from uOttawa, arriving on what would have been her father’s birthday, was, for Tasha, “a sign of where I was supposed to go.”
During her time at uOttawa, Tasha found strength in the Indigenous community, joining the Indigenous Law Students Association (now the Indigenous Law Students Governance). For her, this “helped keep me grounded and helped me reconnect with my culture.” Following her articling year, she was hired as Indigenous programs specialist at uOttawa, ensuring Indigenous students receive even more the same support she relied on.
Supporting Indigenous law learners
At the Faculty, Tasha organizes cultural workshops, academic panels and professional development sessions, creating a support system for Indigenous law students. “I provide them with academic support and ensure they have the resources they need to be successful in obtaining their law degree,” she recounts.
Tasha’s initiatives include assisting with clerkship applications, resumés and interviews, and removing barriers within the application process. She also serves as an intermediary and advocate, encouraging students to use their own voice yet ready to step in when needed.
Preserving and sharing culture
Beyond academic and professional support, Tasha enriches Indigenous culture at the Faculty of Law through weekly beading circles, moccasin and ribbon skirt making, and community gatherings. These activities not only preserve and celebrate Indigenous traditions but also foster a sense of belonging. Tasha provides the materials and lessons, enabling participants to leave with a sense of pride in their creations. “Creating a space for these cultural practices offers an important connection to the community,” she emphasizes.
“Creating a space for [Indigenous] cultural practices offers an important connection to the community.”
Tasha Simon
— Indigenous programs specialist, Faculty of Law
Tasha’s approach is personal and empathetic. Students visit her office for guidance, a listening ear or just a non-judgmental conversation. “They know they are always welcome to come in and talk,” she says.
Tasha decided not to pursue a traditional legal career, finding fulfilment in supporting uOttawa’s Indigenous law community. One of her proudest moments came during a Faculty open house when Indigenous Law Student Governance co-president Christian Spence referred to her as “auntie” for the Indigenous students. Tasha says, “It means you are a respected leader and member, and for me, it reaffirmed that I am making a difference.”
Looking ahead, Tasha is excited about new initiatives such as connecting Indigenous alumni with current students, highlighting their successes and inspiring future generations. Meanwhile, she continues to uplift Indigenous law students, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to succeed.