Focus Law/Droit - 2022-2023

F[O]CUS

droit law

À l’avant-garde Inspiring legal leadership du droit for global challenges

2022-2023

In this issue

16

8

EN VEDETTE 8

11

21

28

À LA FACULTÉ

Learning law from the land, on the land Business, not as usual

2

Nouvelles embauches professorales

5

Faculty News

7

Une honorable visite

26

The Frederick Phillips Summer Program

28 Deux survivantes de la purge LGBTQ des Forces armées canadiennes honorées à la Faculté

13

In-house leaders

16

Putting racist policing on trial

21

The BCL/JD turns 20

30 Can solitary confinement be reformed or abolished in Canada?

ALUMNI COMMUNITY 18

S’impliquer pour épauler la relève

32 Retour resplendissant de la cérémonie de collation des grades

Merci, Lysanne !

34 Outstanding alumni honoured by the McGill Alumni Association

Après avoir contribué à toutes les éditions de Focus Law / Droit depuis 2007, notamment à

36

In Memoriam

titre de rédactrice-en-chef, membre du comité

37

Alumnotes

éditorial et photographe, Lysanne Larose

45

The Chancellor Day Circle

a rendu son stylo rouge et accroché sa Nikon.

Merci, Lysanne, pour tous ces souvenirs que tu nous as aidés à immortaliser!

CONTRIBUTORS

PHOTOGRAPHES

Focus Law / Droit

Maeve Haldane

Joni Dufour

est publié par l’équipe

Aminata Mboup

Owen Egan

des communications de la

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Patrick McDonagh

Paul Fournier

Faculté de droit de McGill.

Karell Michaud

Kejic Productions

Robert Leckey

DESIGN ET MISE EN PAGE

RÉDACTRICE EN CHEF Karell Michaud

F[O]CUS

droit law

2022-2023

Vanessa Batik

The joy of returning to a vibrant campus

Heather Powers

Cover illustration by Johan Papin

Aminata Mboup

Steven McClenaghan McGill Graphic Design Studio

Lysanne Larose Dee M’Bow Alex Tran

Faculté de droit Université McGill 3644, rue Peel Montréal (Québec) H3A 1W9 www.mcgill.ca/law focuslaw.mcgill.ca comms.law@mcgill.ca

LE MOT DU DOYEN

Dean’s Word OWEN EGAN

by Dean Robert Leckey

My conversations with alumni in wildly differing

Si toute philanthropie vient du fond du cœur, j’ai été

roles converge on the value to them of McGill Law’s

particulièrement touché par des dons collectifs faits

distinctive legal education in their daily lives. I think

en hommage à des membres de notre communauté

of an international arbitrator, a senior counsel in a

diplômée peu après leur décès. Les proches de Pierre

multinational firm, and a budding entrepreneur. All

Hébert, BCL’69, de Norton Rose Fulbright, se sont

draw on strengths that characterize how we teach and

rapidement mobilisés pour fonder une bourse en son

research law: a grasp of legal fundamentals; creativity,

nom. Des spécialistes en droit familial du Barreau de

rigour, and the ability to cross borders of varying kinds;

Montréal ont collaboré afin de créer un stage qui sera

and confidence navigating uncertainty. And we remain

offert en perpétuité en hommage à l’honorable

committed to equipping our students with knowledge

Eva Petras, BCL’80, LLB’80, juge en chef adjointe

and skills for tackling today’s challenges and tomor-

de la Cour supérieure du Québec.

row’s. In short, 20 years after students first completed our integrated program, a McGill legal education remains more important than ever.

As we spend less time in emergency meetings about COVID, we can again foreground efforts to renew the faculty and our program in key areas. Strengthening

Je sens que vous partagez mon opinion. Au cours de

the place of business law. Advancing Indigenization,

la dernière année, vous avez plus interagi que jamais

including plans for a stunning Indigenous learning

avec nous sur les réseaux sociaux. La générosité dont

space that will be a first for McGill. Better supporting

vous faites preuve pour soutenir notre mission univer-

Black students and others from groups historically

sitaire et notre talentueuse communauté étudiante

underrepresented. I acknowledge that students can be

s’est traduite en une année phénoménale sur le plan

understandably impatient to see immediate change,

philanthropique. Merci !

while institutions two centuries old sometimes struggle

Our first in-person convocations in three years were

to be sufficiently nimble.

joyous occasions. We converged on McGill’s lower

Merci de continuer à soutenir la Faculté de droit.

campus under the big tent. We hosted the Class of ’22

J’espère vous revoir bientôt, au pavillon Chancellor-Day

and their loved ones at a cocktail in the Faculty Club,

ou ailleurs. D’ici là, connectons-nous sur LinkedIn pour

complete with jazz band. I was touched by the dis-

que vous puissiez nous donner de vos nouvelles et suivre

tances travelled by graduates and their families — and

le quotidien de votre Faculté !

moved by hearing from parents of the positive impact that McGill’s legal education had on their children.

Graduates from ’20 and ’21 crossed a different kind of distance, coming back much later than usual

Robert Leckey, Ad. E.

after their last exam. Many had been sworn into a

Dean and Samuel Gale Professor of Law

Bar over Zoom, making our catch-up ceremony the sole in-person celebration of their transition from student

@DeanLeckey

to legal professional.

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NOUVELLES DE LA FACULTÉ

Nouvelles embauches professorales Trois personnes viendront joindre les rangs facultaires en 2022-2023, apportant de l’expertise en droit administratif et algorithmes de prise de décisions, en accès à la justice et en tribunaux non-professionnels, ainsi qu’en droit privé et droit des biens.

JENNIFER RASO s’est jointe à la Faculté de droit à titre de professeure adjointe le 1er août, et enseigne la procédure administrative ainsi que la pauvreté et le droit. Une spécialiste du droit administratif et de la prise de décisions algorithmique, elle est la chercheuse principale d’un projet intitulé « Shifting Front Lines in the Digital Welfare State: Coding Canadian Social Assistance Laws », soutenu par une subvention de développement Savoir du Conseil de recherche en sciences humaines.

How did you become interested in administrative

each of us provides about our circumstances is filtered

law and data-driven technologies?

through an online form or telephone menu, which

I’ve always been interested in how laws are brought to

shapes how it is understood by the human official(s)

life in everyday settings. For many people, that experience occurs through their interactions with “front-line” officials, such as filing taxes or crossing a border. These decisions are governed by administrative law, but they are also increasingly governed by data-driven technologies. Contrary to the assumption that bureaucracies are slow-moving, government agencies are sometimes the first to use innovative new technologies (computerized

on the other side. Interfaces influence how these “claims” are presented and received. They moderate how senses of administrative (in)justice develop, and how (dis)trust in state agencies is fostered.

I’m interested in how these tools are reshaping law and discretion when they moderate highly impactful decisions made in front-line settings like social assistance and border control.

data management systems in welfare programs are an early example). Today, these tools are becoming deeply

What do you most look forward to about

embedded within administrative agencies without a

joining McGill Law?

full appreciation of their social and legal consequences.

I am keen to join a law school that is so obviously committed to multidisciplinary, cross-cultural exchange.

What’s a legal question that currently

This feature sets McGill Law apart from other Canadian

fascinates you?

law schools and makes it an ideal environment in

How do interfaces mediate crucial interactions between

which to examine the contemporary dilemmas posed

the public and government officials? Today, most people

by algorithmic or data-driven governance. A key

have experienced “digital-first” government: that is,

component of this unique environment is the law

government via website, app, or kiosk. The information

school’s diverse student body. I cannot wait to get to know them better in the classroom and beyond.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

JÉRÉMY BOULANGER-BONNELLY, BCL/LLB’15, se joindra à la Faculté de droit à titre de Boursier Boulton junior le 1er janvier 2023 et accédera au rang de professeur adjoint le 1er août 2023. Terminant actuellement un SJD à l’Université de Toronto, où il est boursier Vanier et boursier de la Fondation Pierre Elliott Trudeau, il s’intéresse à l’accès à la justice et son intersection avec la procédure civile, la résolution de différends, le droit comparé et le droit constitutionnel.

Comment est né votre intérêt pour votre

Qu’est-ce qui vous a mené de la pratique

domaine de recherche?

professionnelle du droit aux études supérieures

C’est d’abord en tant qu’étudiant à McGill que j’ai

et à une carrière universitaire?

pris conscience de la crise d’accès à la justice, mais

J’ai toujours eu un intérêt pour une carrière universi-

c’est véritablement en tant qu’avocat de litige que

taire, mais je souhaitais d’abord comprendre comment

j’en ai mesuré toute l’ampleur, surtout pour les plus

le droit se pratique sur le terrain. J’ai eu la chance

vulnérables. C’est ce constat qui me motive encore

de travailler des deux côtés du banc, d’abord en tant

aujourd’hui à consacrer mes recherches aux diverses

qu’auxiliaire juridique auprès de la magistrature, puis

facettes de cet enjeu complexe. Celui-ci est d’autant

en tant qu’avocat de litige. Ces expériences nourrissent

plus intéressant qu’il se situe à l’intersection de

mes recherches et mon enseignement en me fournis-

plusieurs domaines de droit plus traditionnels comme

sant des exemples concrets qui sont souvent le point

la procédure civile, le droit constitutionnel ou même

de départ de réflexions plus théoriques. C’est encore

l’éthique et la déontologie professionnelles.

plus vrai en droit judiciaire et en procédure civile, un domaine où les règles de droit sont souvent indissocia-

Quelle question juridique vous fascine

bles des pratiques qui guident leur application.

à l’heure actuelle?

J’explore depuis quelques années déjà l’idée de mettre à profit la participation citoyenne afin de rendre la justice civile plus accessible. Nous connaissons déjà très bien les jurys, qui permettent aux citoyens d’agir comme décideurs l’instant d’un dossier, mais d’autres modèles qui se développent ailleurs dans le monde donnent un rôle encore plus actif aux justiciables, qu’il s’agisse de cours mixtes ou de tribunaux entièrement non-professionnels. Je m’intéresse aux contributions potentielles de ces modèles, mais aussi aux écueils qu’ils doivent éviter pour demeurer légitimes et compétents dans un système de justice aussi professionnalisé que le nôtre.

3

KONSTANZE VON SCHÜTZ se joindra à la Faculté de droit à titre de Boursière Wainwright junior le 1er janvier 2023 et accédera au rang de professeure adjointe le 1er août 2023. Auparavant chercheuse en droit privé au Center for the Study of Private Law à l’Université Yale, elle s’intéresse aux idées fondamentales et aux composantes constituantes du droit privé de points de vue théoriques, comparatifs et historiques.

How did you become interested in

Quelle question juridique vous fascine

private law/property law?

à l’heure actuelle?

Since my student days, I have been interested in how

Je m’intéresse beaucoup à la « propriété publique »

private law establishes rules that set up a framework

et à la façon dont le public et le privé s’y manifestent.

for the permissible pursuit of private interests. This

Le propriétaire privé semble être le cas paradigmatique,

larger issue pervades even some of the most “technical”

tandis que l’existence de propriétaires publiques invite

doctrinal elements. Who can enter into enforceable

à recalibrer la place de l’intérêt public dans le rôle

agreements about what? When does pursuing my

d’un propriétaire. Cela soulève aussi des questions

interests turn into actionable harm for others? In prop-

fondamentales sur la nature de l’autorité publique. De

erty law, this issue underlies questions such as “What

plus, les conceptions de ce qu’est la propriété publique

can I permissibly do with the things considered to be

varient considérablement d’une tradition juridique

‘mine’?” Studying how different legal systems respond

à l’autre. Des juridictions mixtes comme le Québec

to these questions has captivated me ever since.

présentent donc des cas d’étude extrêmement stimulants pour s’intéresser à ces enjeux.

What do you most look forward to about joining McGill Law? I am really thrilled to meet everyone who works, researches, studies, and teaches at the faculty, and I will

“I eagerly look forward to partaking in the Faculty’s vibrant intellectual life.”

be delighted to connect with the alumni community.

I eagerly look forward to partaking in the Faculty’s vibrant intellectual life, including but of course not limited to the activities of the Paul-André Crépeau Centre for Private and Comparative Law. And I have heard great things about the library collection and certainly plan to go explore it.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

NOUVELLES DE LA FACULTÉ

Faculty News McGill Law was ranked the 17 best law school worldwide for two consecutive years in the 2022 and 2023 Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) placed the Faculty 31st in the world. th

Marie Manikis a remporté le prix du Concours d’essai juridique de l’Association canadienne des professeurs de droit (ACDP) pour son article « Recognising State Blame in Sentencing : A Communicative and Relational Framework ».

Ignacio Cofone a reçu une mention

Yaëll Emerich a été nommée titulaire de la

d’honneur pour son article « Immu-

Chaire de recherche du Canada (niveau 1)

nity Passports and Contact Tracing

en droit des biens transsystémique et communautés durables. Elle a également

Surveillance ».

remporté le Prix Germain-Brière catégorie

René Provost, FRSC, Ad E, received

senior) pour son article « La résurgence

the annual prize for best book of the

des communs en droit des biens con-

International Society of Public Law

temporains : étude sur les cohabitats

Ram S. Jakhu and Pierre-Emmanuel

(ICON·S) for his monograph Rebel

écologiques et les ruelles vertes ».

Moyse were promoted to full professor,

Courts: The Administration of Justice by

Ignacio Cofone a été nommé titulaire de la

in November 2021 and June 2022,

Armed Insurgents (Oxford University

Chaire de recherche du Canada (niveau 2)

respectively.

Press, 2021).

sur le droit de l’intelligence artificielle

Fabien Gélinas, Ad E, a reçu la médaille

et la gouvernance des données.

Paul-André-Crépeau de l’Association du Barreau canadien, Division du Québec.

Robert Leckey, Ad E, a reçu la distinction Avocat émérite du Barreau du Québec.

Recently published books • Allison Christians, Tax Cooperation in an Unjust World (Oxford University Press, 2022) • Helge Dedek (ed.), A Cosmopolitan Jurisprudence: Essays in Memory of H. Patrick Glenn (Cambridge University Press, 2022)

Andrea K. Bjorklund was appointed to

• Ram S. Jakhu (co-ed.), McGill Manual

the Panel of Arbitrators for the Interna-

on International Law Applicable to

tional Centre for Settlement of Investment

Military Uses of Outer Space, volume

Disputes. She was also appointed to the newly established Hague Court of Arbitration for Aviation, along with Dr. Donal Hanley, interim director of the Institute of Air and Space Law.

Tina Piper has been appointed associate dean (academic) and Darren Rosenblum

I – Rules (online) • Colleen Sheppard, Discrimination

has been appointed associate dean

Stories: Exclusion, Law, and Everyday

(graduate studies), for two-year terms.

Life (Irving Law, 2021) • Shauna Van Praagh, Building Justice:

Johanne Poirier a été reconduite comme

Frank Iacobucci and the Life Cycles

titulaire de la chaire Peter MacKell

of Law (University of Toronto

en fédéralisme. Elle a également reçu

Press, 2022)

le prix John W. Durnford d’excellence en enseignement, décerné par l’Association des étudiant.e.s en droit.

Mugambi Jouet took up a position at the Gould School of Law, University of François Crépeau, OC, OQ, MSRC, Ad E,

Southern California, in August 2022.

a été admis à l’Ordre national du Québec

Adelle Blackett, FRSC, Ad E, has received

à titre d’officier.

an honorary doctorate of laws (LLD) from Queen’s University in October 2022.

5

Nouvelle œuvre d’art au pavillon Chancellor-Day Caroline Monnet est une artiste multidisciplinaire d’origine algonquine-française.

En 2021, elle a été la première artiste autochtone en résidence des Mellon Indigenous Studies and Community Engagement Initiatives à l’Université McGill.

Dans la série intitulée Fragment, Monnet a photographié des sujets portant des masques en plastique transparent couverts d’un dessin géométrique noir.

Ce dessin combine des motifs transmis par ses matriarches et de vues aériennes du système seigneurial de distribution des terres imposé par les colons européens Caroline Monnet Suzanne (Fragment Series) 1/3, 2019, Photograph, 62.7 x 62.7 cm.

Purchased with the support from the Faculty of Law. McGill Visual Arts Collection, 2022-006.002.

sur les territoires autochtones non cédés. Sur ces voiles carrés transparents, les formes géométriques deviennent une lentille à travers laquelle le sujet nous regarde et nous regardons le sujet. Dans cette œuvre, Monnet rend visible une perspective autochtone et nous invite à réfléchir à la nôtre.

© Caroline Monnet.

Le bibliothécaire en chef et bibliothécaire Wainwright Daniel Boyer, Ad E, a pris sa retraite, après vingt-quatre années à la bibliothèque Nahum-Gelber.

Lorsque la distinction d’Advocatus Emeritus lui a été conférée en 2018, le Barreau du Québec a souligné que la bibliothèque Nahum-Gelber était « un modèle parmi les bibliothèques de droit comparé du monde ».

New Faculty appointments Sarah Riley Case (pictured below) began as assistant professor on 1 August, following a year as Boulton junior fellow. Jennifer Raso joined McGill Law as assistant professor on 1 August. Konstanze von Schütz and Jérémy Boulanger-Bonnelly will begin on 1 January 2023, as a Wainwright junior fellow and a Boulton junior fellow, respectively, before transitioning to assistant professor on 1 August 2023. Meet our new Faculty members on page 2.

Brittany Williams, BCL/LLB’19, a été nommée doyenne adjointe (vie étudiante) et déléguée du doyen pour l’épanouissement des étudiant.e.s noir.e.s et autochtones.

Elle a auparavant tenu le rôle de doyenne adjointe (admissions) par intérim et de directrice du Secrétariat aux études.

Lionel Smith was elected the fifteenth Downing Professor of the Laws of England at Cambridge University, UK, and took up the position in the autumn of 2022.

Maria Marcheschi retired after thirty-four

Rosalie Jukier received McGill University’s

years of service. Maria oversaw events

Morty Yalovsky Lifetime Achievement Award

planning for the Faculty of Law, includ-

for Excellence in Academic Leadership at

ing class reunions during Homecoming

the University’s Fall 2022 Convocation

celebrations.

on 26 October. This award recognizes her

Vanessa Batik s’est jointe au personnel

lifetime contribution as an outstanding

administratif à titre de doyenne adjointe

leader and institution builder at McGill.

(administration et stratégie).

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

NOUVELLES DE LA FACULTÉ

Une honorable visite Le 22 septembre, la Faculté de droit a eu le plaisir d’accueillir de nouveau l’honorable Mahmud Jamal, BCL’93, LLB’93, en partenariat avec l’Association du Barreau canadien, division du Québec.

PHOTOS BY OWEN EGAN AND JONI DUFOUR

La nomination de Mahmud Jamal, BCL’93, LLB’93, à la

Pour la deuxième fois depuis 2021, la Faculté de droit a

Cour suprême du Canada, le 1er juillet 2021, a été unani-

eu le privilège d’accueillir son illustre diplômé pour une

mement acclamée dans le monde juridique canadien.

causerie avec la communauté étudiante. Le juge Jamal

Juge à la Cour d’appel de l’Ontario au moment de l’an-

a discuté de ses études en droit, de sa carrière d’avocat,

nonce, Mahmud Jamal a fait ses débuts comme avocat en

puis de ses fonctions judiciaires. L’auditoire a ensuite

litige avec un fort engagement pro bono. Au cours de sa

eu l’occasion de lui adresser des questions, avant de

carrière, il est apparu 35 fois devant le plus haut tribunal

prendre part à une réception dans l’atrium. Organisé en

du pays, où il siège aujourd’hui aux côtés de deux autres

partenariat avec l’Association du Barreau canadien, cet

diplômés de la Faculté : la juge Sheilah Martin, BCL’81,

événement était ouvert aux corps étudiants de toutes

LLB’81, ainsi que le juge Nicholas Kasirer, BCL’85,

les facultés de droit du Québec, offrant une belle occasion

LLB’85. Professeur auxiliaire à la Faculté de droit, il y a

de tisser des liens entre collègues de facultés voisines.

enseigné le droit constitutionnel.

Le 4 novembre, la Faculté de droit a accueilli à leur tour l’honorable Sheilah Martin et l’honorable

La réception a permis de nouvelles rencontres

Nicholas Kasirer pour une séance de questions et réponses organisée en collaboration avec l’Association

parmi collègues

des étudiant.e.s en droit de McGill. Revivez cet

de facultés voisines.

événement en photos sur focuslaw.mcgill.ca.

7

FEATURE

Learning law from the land, on the land

By Patrick McDonagh Photos by Kejic Productions

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This summer, 14 law students headed to Winnipeg to enjoy an unprecedented educational experience with Professor Aaron Mills: a four-week field study course in Anishinaabe law, taught in partnership with the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba (TRCM).

The course was based at The Forks in Winnipeg, and the students stayed in a university residence. Funding from one of McGill’s Tomlinson Chairs provided a modest contribution towards expenses for every participant; additional needs-based funding was made available to cover flight and accommodation.

In 2020, responding to the Truth and Reconciliation

connected, that the earth is inherently good, and the

Commission’s call to engage with Indigenous legal

relationships between things are instructive for us,

systems, McGill Law introduced a new mandatory

because it’s all part of Creator’s vision of balance and

course for first-year law students entitled “Indigenous

harmony. So the fundamental question of social life isn’t

Legal Traditions.”

‘the social contract tradition’ where we ask ‘What is a just

The Anishinaabe Law Field Study course picks up where this introductory course ends. “This course fully engages Indigenous law on its own terms,” says Mills, who holds the Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Constitutionalism and Philosophy and is Anishinaabeg. “To do that we had to get out of the law school and onto the land, interacting with Indigenous community members.”

With this goal in mind, Mills worked with two traditional Anishinaabe knowledge-holders as co-teachers: Elder Harry Bone and Grandmother Sherry Copenace.

“They’ve been my teachers for many years, and we bring very different gifts into a circle while sharing the same commitment,” says Mills, who stresses that he has been on a fifteen-year journey, guided by his grandmother, who passed away a year ago, and other elders, to understand

society, and what institutions and processes are necessary to create and to sustain it?’ Instead, it is ‘How do we fit in to the order which already exists?’ ” Anishinaabe law is often expressed in narratives — teachings embedded in stories, songs and ceremonies — that must then be interpreted within the context of an event or conflict.

“Instead of a set law, there is only legal reasoning, because in every case, you have to reason towards your answer,” Mills explains. As Mill’s co-teacher Grandmother Sherry Copenace points out, “The law is not meant to force people to do things. Rather we want people, based on whatever teaching we provide them with, to want to comply for their own wellness and for the wellness of society. It’s up to the individual to interpret how to live their responsibility in regard to that law.”

Anishinaabe law more fully. “My long-running relationships with them have provided the foundation of this course,” he underscores.

While the differences between Anishinaabe law and the European-based civil and common law traditions are profound, “they perform the same social functions in a very different way,” says Mills. To help students understand it as law rather than just culture, the first week of the course explored Anishinaabe constitutionalism informing its legal understanding. “The Anishinaabe interpretation of the world is that everything is

The field course featured regular outings for land-based learning.

9

Committed to

The teachers explored Anishinaabe law in a manner that

Students engaged with Anishinaabe law not only in

community-based

aligned with Anishinaabe ways of learning. “Typically,

their Monday to Thursday learning circles, but also on

we started the day with teachings from Elders or other

Friday field trips, which included a visit to the ancient

knowledge keepers on the concept we were discussing,

Whiteshell petroforms at Bannock Point, where an Elder

and then we would go around in a circle to share what

explained their connection to Anishinaabe origin stories.

that meant for us,” says Catherine Dunne, who was

“We were able to go out onto the land for ceremonies,

entering her second year of studies. At the end of each

such as participating in a sweat lodge ceremony, and I

week, the students would submit written reflections

felt that the wide range of experiences really helped me

on their learning. “At the start, we wanted the students

to have a fuller picture of Anishinaabe law,” says fourth-

to find ways on their own to understand the ideas,”

year student Ellen Spannagel. “The course challenged

Copenace says. But the first set of weekly reflections

me in all the right ways. It’s been the best experience

showed that students were struggling with the funda-

of my legal education because not only did I learn a lot

mental concepts, so the following week the teachers

about Anishinaabe law on its own terms, but I built

offered concrete examples. “That’s how they were used

valuable relationships with people in my cohort, with

to learning — but we told them, this is a gift, because it’s

the knowledge holders, and with Professor Mills and his

not how we usually teach or learn,” Copenace explains.

family. That sense of community really helped the course

learning, the class was based on learning circles.

come alive.” Indeed, a sense of community is an important feature of Anishinaabe law and, to foster this, Mills organized weekly dinners for all participants.

All participants expressed hope that the course would become a regular feature of the curriculum. “I thought

“ The wide range of experiences really helped me to have a fuller picture of Anishinaabe Law.”

it was very courageous on McGill’s behalf, and a big step for any university, to come to Manitoba and partner with the TRCM to present this course,” Copenace concluded. “What Professor Mills and McGill have done is say that Indigenous law has always been here — and it’s important.”

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FEATURE

Business not as usual

By Karell Michaud

Professor Peer Zumbansen

How does litigation play a role in fighting climate change? How can period-tracking app providers uphold privacy once Roe v. Wade is overturned? Who owns the rights to an artwork created using artificial intelligence?

Through initiatives of the Professorship in Business Law, McGill Law students are sharpening their critical skills by engaging with timely legal issues.

When it was established, the vision for McGill’s Professorship in Business Law was that the Faculty’s distinctive integrated approach had much to contribute to this field. Soon entering its third year of activity, the Professorship is living up to its promise by creating spaces for reflection on the intersection of business and society.

“I understand my role to be about mentorship, support, and training to prompt and encourage the next generation to unpack complexities, formulate informed opinions, and make their voices be heard,” highlights Professor Peer Zumbansen. As the inaugural incumbent of the Professorship, he has been laying the foundations for a hub of excellence in business law at McGill, on par with the Faculty’s recognized strengths such as human rights and dispute resolution. Through two of the Professorship’s flagship initiatives — the McGill Business Law Meter and the Seminars on Business & Society — the Faculty of Law is hosting critical conversations on how business law has its role to play in building a more inclusive, sustainable, and just world.

McGill Business Law Meter Inspired by examples at Harvard Law School and the University of Oxford, the McGill Business Law Meter is a first at a Canadian law faculty. Housed on the McGill Business Law Platform — an online hub for the Faculty’s corporate and business law activities — the blog provides a bilingual space for contributors to engage with developments in the field. Unlike prior examples, which primarily publish texts by professors and legal practitioners, “the Meter almost exclusively publishes students’ work, giving them the chance to add a fresh voice to contemporary conversations,” Professor Zumbansen notes.

11

MOT DU DOYEN Since the Meter’s launch in November 2021, posts have offered nuanced takes on diverse and timely topics such as the regulation of online sex work, cryptocurrencies, autonomous vehicles, and transnational litigation for corporate human rights violations.

“I was extremely pleased to see the range of interest, concern, and awareness that McGill Law students have about key societal issues — and about their own role and that of law in the face of these challenges,” Professor Zumbansen highlights.

“Writing for the McGill Business Law Meter has challenged me to reach beyond my capacity as a student, knowing that the intended audience goes beyond the classroom and to the world at large,” shares thirdyear BCL/JD candidate Charlotte Tyhurst. Her post engaged with the legal and ethical questions raised by text-to-image AI systems such as DALL·E. “This forum provides the opportunity to contribute to academic conversations while providing commentary to the business community,” she adds.

McGill Seminars in Business & Society Launched in September 2021, the McGill Business & Society Seminars have welcomed 17 speakers, hailing from Berlin, Toronto, Paris, Frankfurt, London, Ottawa, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and Montreal.

“The Seminars have opened a lively dialogue between the academic community and thought and action leaders who work in law, business, technology, and policy,” Professor Zumbansen explains. Frequently hosted in

About Business Law at the Faculty

a hybrid format, the seminars are open to the public, attracting participants from around the world who

For many members of our alumni community, their McGill Law

have fostered an inclusive transnational conversation.

education has served as a springboard to a successful business

“The speakers give our future graduates an early and

career. Eager to give back by helping foster the next generation of exceptional talent in their field, these alumni have been championing efforts to establish a hub of excellence in business law at McGill.

As a first phase, their collective fundraising effort enabled the creation of a five-year Professorship in Business Law. McGill Law is now in the process of establishing a permanent, philanthropicallyfunded Chair in Business Law that will solidify the central place

rare insight into the depths and details of the technological, ecological and societal transformations that are unfolding today,” says Professor Zumbansen. Topics have included ‘Big Data’ and algorithmic regulation, gender diversity and inclusion, Environmental and Social Governance (ESG), and business and regulation during and after the global COVID-19 pandemic,

of business law as key faculty strength.

among many others. By laying out the work that needs to be done, the different career options law graduates can pursue, and the challenges they will set out to

Interested in learning more about gift-matching

tackle by doing so, the speakers are sharing invaluable

opportunities or becoming a business law champion?

professional insights that will accompany students far

Contact Heather Powers, Director of Development,

beyond their time at Chancellor Day Hall.

at heather.powers@mcgill.ca.

Explore the activities of the Professorship in Business Law and read the McGill Business Law Meter at mcgill.ca/business-law.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

FEATURE

IN-HOUSE LEADERS

By Patrick McDonagh

Law need not lead to the courtroom. In-house legal counsel perform a crucial role in their enterprises — a role that demands curiosity and creativity. Focus presents the unique career paths of three senior legal counsels, who shared how their McGill Law education equipped them to bring legal leadership to their organization.

“No two projects are exactly alike, so there’s a recognition that we all might be working in an innovative

AMEE SANDHU

way. And the more I do this work, the more I liken contracts to storytelling,” she explains. “The contract should tell the story of what people are trying to accomplish: this is what we’re trying to do, this is why, this is how long it will take, this is the cost, and finally these are the consequences if things are not successful.”

The multi-faceted Sandhu also has expertise in corporate ethics and compliance, developed while working for SNC-Lavalin. The company had bought the assets of Atomic Energy of Canada Inc, her After three years of running Lex Integra, her own

employer at the time, and created Candu Energy in

business providing legal counsel and ethics advisory

2011 — just before SNC-Lavalin was hit by corruption

services to companies, Amee Sandhu, LLB’98, joined

scandals. When SNC-Lavalin created an ethics and

Alstom Canada in July as the dedicated project lawyer

compliance department in 2013, Sandhu was asked

for Alstom’s scope on the expansion and electrifica-

if she would serve as sector compliance officer for

tion of Go Transit System, the regional public transit

global power. “I jumped at the chance because it was

service of the greater Toronto and Hamilton area. In

new learning that aligned with my personal values

this role, she is involved in day-to-day legal or strategic

and my sense of how businesses should behave.”

issues: questions of contract interpretation, contract amendments, components of the contract still to be determined, and so forth. The project — design, build, operate and maintain the new infrastructure and trains for 25 years, a massive, multibillion-dollar undertaking — is estimated to take ten years for the construction period. It involves increasing train services while moving the network from diesel to electric trains, reducing greenhouse gases. “This project reflects my interests and personal values,” she says.

Sandhu now shares this expertise with McGill students: she co-taught McGill Law’s first anticorruption course, a one-week intensive course in Focus Week in February 2022, and is returning in February 2023 to co-teach another intensive course on environmental and social governance law.

“There’s an ongoing sense of community among McGill graduates,” she says. “McGill Law provided an intimate, collegial community that people are very proud to be a part of. And that pride continues long after we graduate.”

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FEATURE

Élizabeth Gagné, BCL/LLB’02, s’est jointe à CBC/

le génie, la technologie et l’infrastructure. » La créa-

Radio-Canada en 2017 afin d’agir comme conseillère

tivité est aussi indispensable. « Si je ne trouve pas de

juridique dans le cadre du projet de la nouvelle Maison

solutions aux obstacles qui se présentent lors de la

Radio-Canada à Montréal. « Pour l’achat de tout le

négociation d’un contrat, les services de production

nouvel équipement technologique du bâtiment, nous

pourraient se retrouver en péril. Les Jeux olympiques

avons dû négocier un total de 80 à 100 contrats avec

et les élections sont les périodes les plus exigeantes à

différents fournisseurs ! », partage-t-elle. « C’était

CBC/Radio-Canada et, l’an dernier, avec deux Jeux

un défi des plus stimulants. » Désormais, à titre de

olympiques en six mois, nous avons dû surmonter de

première conseillère juridique, elle est responsable

sérieux défis de dernière minute. »

des contrats relatifs aux technologies et à l’infra-

« Mes professeurs à McGill soutenaient que nous devi-

structure, aux médias numériques et à d’autres types d’approvisionnements.

ons apprendre à penser au-delà du cadre établi. Quand je dois bâtir un contrat à partir d’une page blanche,

Le travail de conseiller juridique interne requiert une

je vois de quelle façon cette créativité entre réellement

profonde compréhension de son organisation, sou-

en scène », souligne-t-elle. Me Gagné a récemment

tient Me Gagné. « Comme membre du département

terminé une négociation de vaste envergure pour l’im-

juridique, il faut faire preuve de curiosité. Je travaille

plantation d’ un réseau interne de télécommunication.

principalement avec les services d’ingénierie et de TI,

« Quand je relis ce contrat, j’y vois quelque chose qui

donc je dois constamment poser des questions sur

s’apparente à une œuvre d’art », explique-t-elle. Étudiante, Me Gagné a fait le saut à la Faculté de droit directement en provenance du cégep. « Je savais combien le droit ouvrait des portes, mais j’ignorais où il me mènerait quand j’ai commencé mes études », raconte-t-

ÉLIZABETH GAGNÉ

elle. « J’ai eu l’occasion d’être avocate en entreprise tôt dans ma carrière et j’ai senti que c’était ma place. J’ai fait mon stage en cabinet privé et j’y ai vécu une excellente expérience d’apprentissage, mais je n’y éprouvais pas le même sentiment d’appartenance. » Aujourd’hui, elle s’implique comme mentore à la Faculté par l’entremise du Centre de développement professionnel, et elle encourage les membres de la communauté étudiante à considérer la possibilité d’une carrière en entreprise. « J’encourage sans hésitation les étudiantes et étudiants à faire leur stage en grand cabinet s’ils le peuvent, mais je ne veux pas qu’ils oublient que d’autres voies existent aussi. »

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

JASPER MEYERS

“ You’re constantly trying to figure out where the technology is going and what risks it brings. It’s a creative and competitive space, and you need a global perspective to remain relevant.”

Jasper Meyers, BCL’83, LLB’83, senior counsel with

Jasper has been with the same company for 31 years,

Nokia’s Cloud & Network Services Business Group,

even if its name has changed: AT&T spun off Lucent

has been based in the Netherlands (with six years in

Technologies in 1996, which merged with Alcatel in

London) since he joined Allen & Overy in Amsterdam

2006, and Alcatel-Lucent was acquired by Nokia

in 1988, after five years with Dentons in Toronto. The

in 2016 (after selling its mobile phone business to

son of Dutch immigrants to Montréal, Jasper spoke the

Microsoft). Jasper has filled several key roles over the

language and fit in well, appreciating the challenges of

years, now focusing on large transactions that touch

the very international practice in Amsterdam. “Many

on the technological avant-garde — cloud native

people in Canada didn’t understand my move at the

computing, artificial intelligence, data analytics,

time,” he recalls. When AT&T approached him in

and the metaverse.

1991 to work on M&A in central and eastern Europe, things fell into place and the opportunity to stay was too good to resist. New opportunities were opening up for lawyers following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the 1992 Maastricht Treaty, encouraging the free movement of people, capital, goods, and services in the EU, as well as the privatization and de-regulation of industry, and the rise of the internet and cellular networks. “All business in Europe was suddenly cross-border, and multilingual lawyers, trained in both common and civil law, embracing the pluralist perspective fostered by McGill Law, had an advantage,” says Jasper, who was editor-in-chief of volume 27 of the McGill Law Journal (1981-82).

“It’s been a white-knuckle ride,” he says. “You’re constantly trying to figure out where the technology is going and what risks it brings. It’s a creative and competitive space, and you need a global perspective to remain relevant.” The ever-evolving technology means that guidance isn’t found in law books. “You need to create new forms of contract based on the volution of software and its use cases. Curiosity, flexibility and innovation are essential.”

Jasper particularly appreciates the global span of his work. “I typically start my day speaking to Australia, China, Singapore... then Dubai and Europe, and later to the US,” he says. “I enjoy the dynamism, watching the industry evolve and contributing to developments globally.”

15

FEATURE

PUTTING RACIST POLICING ON TRIAL

By Maeve Haldane

If the state of Louisiana were a country, it’d have the highest incarceration rate in the world.

Moreover, violent arrests and police misconduct incidents are commonplace, particularly in Black communities. A new initiative, Justice Lab, is tackling the state’s racially discriminatory policing.

In her role as Legal Director of the ACLU of Louisiana, Nora Ahmed, BCL/LLB’12, is bringing pro bono representation to a region where it’s scant.

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Like many in the early days of the pandemic, Ahmed was looking for meaningful change, in her case after seven years at a New York firm. A job posting at the American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana caught her eye: it was specifically focused on racial and gender justice and sought someone who could enhance partnerships with large law firms interested in pro bono work.

She was keen on social justice and change and, as a woman of colour, had personally dealt with racism.

In addition, she felt well positioned for the job due to

Nora Ahmed, BCL/LLB’12

her familiarity with both big law and social issues.

In her interview, she stated bluntly that her goal was to rally an army of lawyers to Louisiana.

She expected a slow transition to her new work, but within two weeks of accepting the job, George Floyd was murdered and Justice Lab was born. Outraged law firms spoke up about ensuring proper justice in underrepre(left) In spring 2021, ACLU Louisiana

sented communities. Ahmed acted quickly to seize this momentum and rallied her contacts.

took part in a rally

Plenty were looking for lockdown-friendly work.

to protest the death

Ryan Hicks, BCL/LLB’21, associate at Freshfields

of Ronald Greene, who

Bruckhaus Deringer, says he “jumped at the opportunity

died in the custody of Louisana State Police in 2019.

to participate, because it’s the kind of work lawyers have a duty to do.” Hicks has known Ahmed since they were both English teachers in France nearly 20 years ago. “She is a force, in all the positive meanings of the word,” he says.

Hundreds came forward, and volunteers tackled the intake forms by interviewing plaintiffs and witnesses, as well as gathering documents. Ahmed and the team learned as they went, and tweaked the process to evaluate legal claims sooner if a claim was viable. If so, Justice Lab would proceed to an in-depth investigation and, where feasible, litigation.

Thanks to all the intakes, “we now have a good sense of where complaints are coming from across the state,” says Ahmed. The community is better informed of rights and recourses. That information was used to encourage the U.S. Department of Justice to initiate a “pattern or practice” investigation into the State’s police. Indeed, in June 2022, it did so, announcing an investigation to assess whether it uses excessive force and engages in racially discriminatory policing.

“It was an excellent pandemic project,” Ahmed says.

“People had to imagine what a world of lawyering looked like when you couldn’t be in person.” Before long, Ahmed had an online army of hundreds, rallied from as far away as Ireland and Australia.

To date, Justice Lab has filed 39 cases before the courts, and is investigating 11 other complaints. “Our goal is to proceed with the litigation of 50 cases during this first phase,” Ahmed says. “We’ll reopen the intake once the docket falls to 25.”

Ahmed, along with a paralegal and a team of more than 20 dedicated summer interns, developed a repository of guidebooks and, with the assistance of experts across the country, training videos for firms willing to take on a case. She and her executive director were acutely aware of the possible tensions of having “wealthy, largely white people in the top 1% of society engage in conversations and relationships for which many of them were likely not prepared.” Ahmed thus arranged for legal and advocacy experts to give targeted workshops on the legal system, constitutional amendment violations, and movement lawyering.

Then came the search for plaintiffs, by advertising on billboards, radio, busses, and the Internet. If someone had experienced a negative racialized interaction with police, there was a hotline to contact.

Justice Lab is explicit about race in its litigation. It will mention the history of a neighbourhood or say if the KKK is still operational there. Ahmed is happy to find that “a handful of cases against a single police department causes them grave consternation.”

Ahmed recently won a case (now being appealed) in which officers tackled a Black woman in her driveway and threatened to tase her minor age child. Someone had accused her of driving a motorcycle without a helmet. “Even if it were true,” Ahmed says, “this wouldn’t happen to a wealthy white person. Police would go to their house, have a conversation, give them a ticket ...

They wouldn’t arrest them and treat them in this way.”

Police officers’ racist, unconstitutional behaviours must be challenged, but Ahmed’s goal isn’t to play “gotcha.” The goal is to get involved in the life of a Derek Chauvin “ideally after the first complaint,” she says. “Not after someone is dead.”

17

ALUMNI COMMUNITY

S’impliquer pour

ÉPAULER LA RELÈVE Par Karell Michaud

À travers le programme de mentorat du Centre de développement professionnel, plusieurs membres de la communauté diplômée offrent leur temps et expertise pour soutenir la future génération de juristes. Quatre d’entre eux ont partagé leur expérience avec Focus.

Lucie Lanctuit, BCL/LLB’10 Associée au sein du groupe de litiges et résolution de conflits chez Fasken à Montréal, Lucie Lanctuit n’a nul doute du rôle clé que peut jouer un mentor. « Il est important que les étudiants puissent avoir accès à des praticiens avec qui ils peuvent discuter du droit, tel qu’il

Alain Bartleman, BCL/LLB’16

existe au-delà des bancs de la Faculté. Cela leur permet d’avoir un échange franc dans un climat de confiance »,

« J’ai eu la chance d’être accompagné par d’excellents

explique-t-elle. Comme étudiante, elle aurait elle-même

mentors professionnels et universitaires lors de

voulu profiter des conseils d’un mentor diplômé pour

mes études », raconte Alain Bartleman. Ces mentors,

répondre aux nombreuses questions qui l’assaillaient

certains formels et d’autres informels, occupent

sur les choix à faire après la diplomation, et elle espère

toujours une grande place dans sa vie, aujourd’hui

maintenant offrir ce soutien.

à titre d’amis et de collègues.

Après un début de carrière en tant qu’avocate-recher-

Avocat pratiquant dans le domaine du droit autoch-

chiste auprès de l’honorable Pierre J. Dalphond à la

tone, Alain Bartleman représente exclusivement

Cour d’appel du Québec, Me Lanctuit a agi comme

des individus et des organisations appartenant aux

avocate à la Commission d’enquête sur l’octroi et

Premières Nations. Il exerce principalement le droit

la gestion des contrats publics dans l’industrie de la

commercial et le droit des affaires pour ses clients.

construction (Commission Charbonneau). Avant

Avant ses études, il a travaillé dans une pluralité

de se joindre à Fasken, elle était associée dans

d’environnements, dont un cabinet de droit parisien

un cabinet national.

spécialisé en services financiers ainsi qu’une entreprise de consultation à Genève. « Je profite toujours des sages conseils et de l’expérience de mes collègues seniors. Servir comme mentor diplômé est à mes yeux une façon de perpétuer l’une des plus belles traditions du Barreau canadien. »

Son implication lui permet en retour de demeurer au fait de la réalité de la relève. « Ces interactions me permettent de connaître les préoccupations actuelles des étudiants en droit, dont certains pourraient même devenir des collègues ou des confrères dans un avenir proche. En répondant à leurs questions, je me rappelle

« Échanger avec les étudiantes et étudiants que

pourquoi j’aime tant mon métier ! »

je mentore me permet non seulement de redonner à la communauté de McGill, mais aussi de réfléchir de façon critique à ce que j’ai appris, comme étudiant et comme avocat », explique-t-il au sujet de son implication. « À un niveau fondamental, leur volonté, leur discipline et leur créativité m’inspirent à être un meilleur avocat. »

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RSITY

Kathy Nakashima, BCL’81, LLB’81 Lorsqu’elle a franchi les portes de la Faculté de droit pour la première fois, Kathy Nakashima n’était que la deuxième personne de sa famille étendue à poursuivre un diplôme professionnel, et il lui fallut quelque temps pour trouver ses repères. Aujourd’hui, elle aide la nouvelle génération à naviguer cette période d’incertitude. « Les études en droit peuvent être intimidantes; les mentors peuvent aider à apaiser les craintes et offrir l’encouragement nécessaire; c’est ainsi qu’on permet aux étudiants d’offrir le meilleur d’eux-mêmes », souligne-t-elle.

Ian Cuillerier, BCL’95, LLB’95

Présidente du conseil d’administration de la Fondation de l’Hôpital de Montréal pour enfants, Me Nakashima est une philanthrope dévouée,

Bien que sa carrière l’ait mené au cœur de Manhattan, Ian Cuillerier conserve des liens étroits avec le pavillon

impliquée auprès de nombreux organismes locaux

Chancellor-Day. Associé au sein du groupe sur les pro-

et internationaux, dont l’Université McGill, UNICEF

duits dérivés du cabinet international White & Case,

et la Mackay Centre School. Elle a pratiqué le droit

il offre depuis plusieurs années ses conseils de mentor

pendant neuf ans dans un cabinet spécialisé en droit

à la communauté étudiante et soutient le Centre de

commercial et droit des affaires et, à un jeune âge,

développement professionnel, par exemple en offrant

elle a accédé au rôle de co-associée-directrice,

des présentations sur la pratique du droit à New York.

devenant l’une des premières femmes à la direction d’un cabinet à Montréal. « McGill m’a permis de m’épanouir à travers ma carrière. Il me semblait naturel de maintenir des liens avec une institution qui a joué un rôle si clé dans ma vie », raconte-t-elle.

Elle siège au conseil consultatif de la Faculté de droit, qui conseille le doyen sur le plan stratégique. « Comme membre du conseil, je trouve intéressant et important de voir la Faculté à travers le regard étudiant en plus du point de vue administratif.

« Je crois que la base du mentorat est d’offrir une nouvelle perspective et de partager des éléments de mon expérience pour aider les autres à prendre des décisions plus informées, que ce soit dans le contexte de leur carrière, de s’adapter à de nouvelles circonstances ou à trouver son équilibre », partage-t-il. « C’est un petit investissement de temps qui se traduit par un impact significatif. C’est une excellente façon de rendre au suivant. »

Mon implication comme mentore fait de moi une

Il sent aussi tirer profit de l’expérience de mentor,

meilleure conseillère. »

au même titre que les personnes qu’il conseille. « Le

« Je trouve si gratifiant de voir grandir l’implication et la confiance des personnes que je mentore », soulignet-elle au sujet de son expérience. Elle remarque que les nouvelles générations profitent davantage des activités extrascolaires. « Il est inspirant d’apprendre toutes les opportunités qui leur sont offertes, et de les voir en profiter pleinement ! », conclut-elle.

mentorat m’offre des occasions d’autoréflexion en me poussant à m’interroger sur ce qui est et a été important pour moi », souligne-t-il. « C’est aussi un bon travail de fond, en quelque sorte : de façon pratique, cela aide à donner de la rétroaction, à perfectionner l’art de poser la bonne question et à développer ses aptitudes de leadership à un niveau très pratique et granulaire », conclut-il.

Le Programme de mentorat des diplômées et diplômés de la Faculté de droit vise à établir des ponts entre les générations présente et future de juristes. La diversité des intérêts professionnels des étudiant.e.s de la Faculté est phénoménale — votre expérience, quelle qu’elle soit, est la bienvenue.

Intéressé.e à prendre part à cette expérience enrichissante et partager vos connaissances, votre cheminement personnel et votre expertise professionnelle ? Inscrivez-vous dès maintenant auprès du Centre de développement professionnel à l’aide du formulaire suivant : www.mcgill.ca/law/alumni/inspiration-network

19

Your source for McGill Law news, all year round Find out what’s happening with your faculty, our students, and fellow law alumni on the web version of Focus Law / Droit !

Tout au long de l’année universitaire, accédez aux dernières nouvelles de votre Faculté de droit sur notre plateforme électronique. Vous y trouverez des entrevues avec des membres d’exception de la communauté diplômée, les albums-photos de nos événements récents, les dernières nouvelles de notre corps professoral, des profils de membres de marque de la communauté étudiante, et plus encore!

Some of our latest publications include a snapshot of our 2022 entering class, back-to-school in photos, and a Q&A with Professor Shauna Van Praagh on her recently published book Building Justice: Frank Iacobucci and the Life Cycles of Law. Also make sure to check out the photos from our 2022 Homecoming celebrations!

Read Focus Law / Droit at focuslaw.mcgill.ca and watch your inbox for our monthly newsletter

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

4

20 THE BCL/JD

TURNS 20

In 2002, a pioneering crew of graduating law students became the first in history to receive McGill Law’s integrated dual degrees in common law and civil law. Three years prior, they had embarked on the unbeaten path of McGill’s ambitiously reformed law curriculum. Today, as it celebrates its 20th anniversary, the bilingual integrated program remains innovative and is recognized as one of the best in the world.

Launched on the Faculty of Law’s sesquicentennial anniver-

reflecting on how law is taught has become deeply ingrained in

sary in 1999, the integrated program reimagined what legal

the McGill Law culture. A new faculty-wide consultation was

st

education could look like in the 21 century. One of its core

launched on the 10th anniversary of the program and led to the

tenants is that students gain a deeper fundamental under-

2016 curriculum renewal, notably making a greater place for

standing of law through a dialogue between legal systems.

experiential learning. Focus Week workshops were introduced,

From then on, all students would be learning common law and

bringing in seasoned practitioners to teach intensive courses

civil law concurrently, beyond the boundaries of any state’s

on matters relevant to current practice. In the past decade,

legal system. “The goal is that, wherever they work, our

the Faculty has acted on its commitments to making a greater

graduates will be able to use the local system appropriately

place for Indigenous legal traditions in the integrated curricu-

while understanding other ways of approaching a problem,”

lum. The launch of a mandatory first-year course on this topic

says Professor Shauna Van Praagh, who played a major role

in 2021 marked a milestone in this pursuit.

in the curricular reform.

Partout autour du monde, le grade BCL/JD est devenu un gage

La réforme est parmi les plus audacieuses à s’être tenues

d’excellence. En 2022, le Times Higher Education a prononcé

dans une faculté de droit dans les dernières décennies. Elle

McGill le 17e meilleur endroit au monde où étudier le droit.

s’appuyait néanmoins sur une longue tradition d’excellence

Chaque année, les diplômées et diplômés de la Faculté raflent

universitaire, de pluralisme juridique et de bilinguisme à la

un nombre significatif de sièges parmi les convoités postes

Faculté. Le droit civil et la common law cohabitaient déjà

d’auxiliaires juridiques à la Cour suprême du Canada. Que

au pavillon Chancellor-Day depuis trois décennies sous

ce soit à titre de praticiens solos, associés dans des grands

le « programme national », où les deux traditions étaient

cabinets, entrepreneurs ou figures publiques, les membres

enseignées séparément. Bien qu’il occupe maintenant une

de la communauté diplômée poursuivent des carrières

place centrale, le bilinguisme était requis à la Faculté dès 1875.

exceptionnelles dans des juridictions partout sur la planète.

Two decades on, the journey has continued. Rooted in

« On me confie régulièrement que les juristes formés à McGill se distinguent par leur créativité, leurs aptitudes critiques et leur

the intellectual premises of the integrated program, the

polyvalence exceptionnelle », souligne le doyen Robert Leckey.

curriculum has evolved to become more inclusive and inter-

« C’est avec une grande fierté que nous formons les leaders

disciplinary. Credited extracurricular opportunities (such as

juridiques qui transformeront le monde de demain. »

exchanges, moot competitions, and legal clinics) have multiplied exponentially. As a result of the initial reform process,

21

THE BCL/JD TURNS 20

THE INTEGRATED BCL/JD PROGRAM,

THEN AND NOW AU LANCEMENT Enseigner et penser le droit, au-delà des frontières d’une seule tradition juridique

Approche intégrée

Programme bilingue

Double diplômation

Le droit civil et la common law

Tous les cours obligatoires

Deux diplômes, en droit civil

sont enseignés concurremment

requièrent des lectures en français

et common law, reçus simultanément

dans certains domaines clés.

et en anglais, peu importe

à l’issue du programme.

L’approche intégrée inspire

la langue d’enseignement.

de nombreux autres cours.

INTEGRATED COURSES

TRADITION-SPECIFIC PRIVATE LAW

FIRST-YEAR MANDATORY COURSES

Contractual Obligations, Extra-Contractual Obligations

Civil Law Property

Foundations, Constitutional Law

ADVANCED COURSES AND ELECTIVES

YEAR 2-4 L

YEAR 1 L

FOUNDATIONAL COURSES

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

PUBLIC LAW

TRADITION-SPECIFIC PRIVATE LAW

OTHER ADVANCED CLASSES

Criminal Law, Admin Law, Public Int’l Law

Common Law Property, Advanced Obligations in each tradition

Many classes informed by the integrated approach (e.g. Evidence, Civil Procedure)

(e.g. McGill Law Journal, Legal Information Clinic, moot competitions, human rights internships)

1994

1999

2012

Start of the five-year Faculty consultation on ‘What should legal education at McGill look like at the end of the 20th century?’

Lancement du « programme de McGill », combinant les cursus de droit civil et de common law selon une nouvelle approche intégrée ou « transsystémique »

A decade after the graduation of the integrated program’s first cohort, a community-wide reflection is launched on how it has fared, and where to go next.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

Two decades after the graduation of its first cohort, we look at how the integrated program has evolved over the years, maintaining itself as a global model for legal education.

STRUCTURE ACTUELLE Une formation fondamentale renforcée par l’expérience pratique

Approche intégrée élargie

Acquisition de compétences pratiques

Réputation mondiale

L’approche intégrée permet d’accorder

En complément à sa formation fondamentale,

Les membres de la communauté

une place grandissante aux traditions

le programme offre plusieurs occasions

BCL/JD sont reconnus pour

juridiques autochtones, aux traditions

d’apprentissage par la pratique

leur polyvalence exceptionnelle,

juridiques du reste du monde et aux

et la résolution de problèmes, dispensées

leur permettant de poursuivre des carrières

perspectives interdisciplinaires.

par des juristes d’expérience.

épanouies partout au monde.

INTEGRATED FOUNDATIONS OF THE 1999 PROGRAM

RENEWED MANDATORY CLASSES

INTEGRATION WEEK + WORKSHOPS

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

Criminal Justice, Indigenous Legal Traditions

Introductory workshops in small groups + plenary lectures

RENEWED MANDATORY CLASSES

FOCUS WEEK WORKSHOPS

Expanded opportunities of credited extracurricular activities for students of all years, including new journals, and an increased offering of legal clinics, exchanges, moot competitions, and more.

Integrated Property Law Legal Ethics and Professionalism, Advocacy

Intensive workshops with seasoned practitioners on topics relevant to current practice

2016

2019

2021

Renouveau du programme BCL/LLB :

Following the new North American standard, McGill Law adopts the JD designation for its common law degree.

Ajout d’un cours obligatoire de première année sur les traditions juridiques autochtones.

• Nouvelles expériences d’apprentissage par la pratique et par la résolution de problèmes (semaine d’intégration, Focus week) • Nouveaux cours intégrés (Criminal Justice, Integrated [or “Transsystemic”] Property Law) • Place grandissante aux traditions juridiques autochtones dans le cursus intégré

23

THE BCL/JD TURNS 20

LE PROGRAMME INTÉGRÉ,

DANS LEURS MOTS À l’occasion des vingt ans du programme intégré, trois membres de sa cohorte inaugurale partagent de quelle façon ce dernier a joué un rôle dans leurs carrières accomplies.

“McGill Law broadened my horizons on many levels and helped me appreciate different perspectives in both law and in life. I was born and raised in Edmonton and returned to practice law there with a greater ability to serve clients from various cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. I often reflect on how fortunate I am to be able to draw on my legal education to help resolve issues.”

“Studying law at McGill was one of the best decisions I ever made. In legal practice, whether in Canada or the Netherlands, Tanzania, or Sierra Leone, or now in academia in the USA, McGill’s comparative law training was the legal toolbox that enabled me to step back and analyze problems in a more complex and more creative way.”

“My McGill legal education empowered me to draw on foundational first principles, multiple sources, and different legal tools to craft sound arguments and solutions in those grey zones where no obvious answer exists. The McGill program has not only made me a better and more creative lawyer, it has also helped keep me engaged and passionate about my work in law.”

THE HON. ANNA LOPARCO,

PROFESSOR CHARLES C. JALLOH,

MEGAN STEPHENS, BCL/ LLB’02,

BCL/LLB’02, MBA’03

BCL/LLB’02

2002 recipient of the Aimé Geoffrion Medal

The Hon. Anna Loparco was appointed to the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta in 2019.

She was previously a partner at Dentons (formerly Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP), where she had practiced civil litigation for 15 years. As chair of the Court’s Restorative Justice Committee, she played a central role in launching the Honourable Beverley Browne — Wîyasôw Iskweêw — Restorative Justice Committee Pilot Project. In 2022, she endowed the Anna Loparco Entrance Scholarship at McGill, an academic achievement award to support Indigenous students from the Prairie provinces entering the BCL/JD program.

Dr. Charles C. Jalloh is Distinguished University Professor at Florida International University. He is a member of the United Nations International Law Commission and chaired its Drafting Committee in 2018. In 2022, he was appointed a Special Rapporteur for the topic Subsidiary means for the determination of rules of international law. The founding editor of the African Journal of Legal Studies and the African Journal of International Criminal Justice, he is a member of the Board of Editors of the American Journal of International Law and the Founder of the Center for International Law and Policy in Africa.

Megan Stephens runs her own law firm where she specializes in constitutional and criminal litigation. She regularly represents complainants in sexual assault proceedings and has a long-standing interest in improving the justice system’s responsiveness to gender-based violence and related concerns about the criminalization of women.

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FACULTY NEWS

70 YEARS OF

EXCELLENCE IN AIR AND SPACE LAW

T

he Institute of Air and Space Law (IASL) at McGill University is the world’s premier graduate educational research institution in the fields of air and space law. In the decades since its founding in 1951, the IASL’s rich offering of courses and outstanding staff and expertise have paved the way for over

1,200 graduates to fill some of the most eminent positions in the aviation and space industries, in the legal profession, at academic and governmental institutions

as well as in international organizations around the world.

In 2021, the IASL marked its seventieth anniversary by celebrating a long and rich history dedicated to excellence in graduate legal education, public service, and scholarship. As the domains of aviation and outer space activities continue to grow and expand, the IASL looks forward to building on the efforts of its staff and alumni over the years to excel long into the future.

DISCOVER THE HISTORY OF THE IASL, ITS MISSION AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS, AND NOTABLE FACULTY AND ALUMNI THROUGHOUT THE YEARS AT: MCGILL.CA/ IASL

The IASL Faculty and students in 1951

The IASL entering class of 2022-2023 25

NOUVELLES DE LA FACULTÉ

The Frederick Phillips Summer Program

By Aminata Mboup & Karell Michaud Photos by Dee M’Bow

Ommu-Kulsoom J. Abdul-Rahman and Chloe Kemeni wanted to demystify for Black teenagers what it takes to pursue a legal education. So they invited them to experience it for themselves.

In July, the Faculty of Law welcomed twenty-one high school seniors and CEGEP students. Over a two-week full-time program, they worked on a personal project, took part in workshops with seasoned law practitioners, and went on field trips to law firms and Montreal courts. Hired as the Faculty of Law’s Black student coordinators, OMMU-KULSOOM J. ABDUL-RAHMAN and CHLOE KEMENI designed and spearheaded this initiative, in consultation with the Black Law Students’ Association of McGill. Funding was provided by the Office of the Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic), under the auspices of McGill’s Action Plan to Address Anti-Black Racism. They shared their experiences with us.

How was the idea for the program born?

Ommu-Kulsoom: When I worked in a student recruit-

What were your intentions and goals for this program stepping into this?

ment role at McGill, I heard of an American school that

Ommu-Kulsoom: The vision was to create a pathway

ran summer programs for different identity groups

to higher education in law school that was much more

like Black African Americans, Latinx Americans, and

inclusive and mindful of the youth and their back-

Indigenous students. Their goal was to give them a

ground. We wanted to make this an environment where

chance to see themselves pursuing higher education

they would feel comfortable and thrive in.

and show how they would be included and accepted

For Black students, McGill can seem very isolating

within their space. I found that meaningful.

since it is a predominantly white institution. We

After starting at the Faculty and seeing the new com-

wanted to show them that it was a space where they

mitments the University had made to Black students,

could build community. There is strength in the way

I made a first draft of the program and contacted Chloe

Black students at McGill congregate and support each

to share the idea. [In a meeting with the Black Law

other. We wanted to give program participants a taste

Students’ Association of McGill,] we presented the

of it, so they could see themselves applying to McGill

project to Dean Leckey and to Brittany Williams, who

and pursuing this as an option, rather than feel it is less

was acting assistant dean (admissions) at the time.

attainable than other schools.

They liked the idea and approved us running a pilot.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

How did the selection process happen?

What were the highlights of the program for you?

to picture what a law

Ommu-Kulsoom: Kimberley Lee-Louis [then assistant

Chloe: I think for me it was at the gala. We saw two

career would look like,

dean (inclusion – Black and Indigenous flourishing)]

students taking pictures together and, when I asked if

beyond the classroom.

was able to help us get the word out and promote it. She

they knew each other before, they replied that they had

was a great sounding board, because she was familiar

just met during the program. I am proud of many things

with the youth we were trying to target. We were mind-

we did, but seeing those friendships build over time was

ful of ensuring that the students we recruited were

priceless. Some folks who did not even know each other

representative of various backgrounds. Some of us have

were carpooling in together from the second or third

more access to certain opportunities than others and

day! I think it’s beautiful and essential to be able to say

are more affluent, coming from privileged backgrounds.

that you have built friendships from this. And if they

In that sense, we wanted to make sure that a variety of

both want to get into a program down the line, they

youth were being led into this program as well.

now have someone they can rely on. The community is

Chloe: A lot of students were saying that it was through

so small it’s quite easy to end up walking through most

A law firm visit allowed program participants

word of mouth that they were able to get information,

stages of the law experience together. It’s always nice

from their parents or from teachers for instance. So

to have those support systems.

now that the students have gone through it and had a

Ommu-Kulsoom: Another highlight was when elders

positive experience, if another edition of the program

in our community would come up to us and speak

were held, I can imagine that we would have even more

about how meaningful the program was to them. They

applicants.

felt that if they had this opportunity when they were younger, their path could have been different. Back in their days, programs like these were not an option, so they ended up in a career path more closely aligned to what a Black person was expected to do at the time.

Frederick R. Phillips, BCL’56, was the first

Their comments made us realize how meaningful the

Black lawyer to be admitted to the Quebec Bar.

program was, not only to the students, but to older

As a veteran returning from three years in the

folks in our community who saw its value and who took

Air Force, he completed his entire high school

it upon themselves to get the word out so their children

diploma in one year, then pursued a BA and finally

or grandchildren could apply.

a BCL at McGill. He practiced law for 36 years and was a trailblazer for generations of Black lawyers who followed and continued to face barriers in the legal profession.

27

ALUMNI COMMUNITY

Deux survivantes de la purge LGBTQ des Forces armées canadiennes honorées à la Faculté Photos par Owen Egan / Joni Dufour

Pour l’inauguration d’événements nommés en leur honneur, la Faculté de droit a accueilli Michelle Douglas et Martine Roy, deux activistes ayant porté devant les tribunaux les mesures discriminatoires anti-LGBTQ perpétuées par le gouvernement canadien pendant quatre décennies.

CONFÉRENCE MICHELLE DOUGLAS

COLLOQUE ÉTUDIANT MARTINE ROY

Le 15 mars, Michelle Douglas (1) a offert l’édition inaugurale

À l’occasion de la première édition du colloque étudiant

de la conférence baptisée en son honneur. Elle a raconté

Martine Roy, tenu le 15 mars, quatre membres de la commu-

comment, en 1989, elle a été congédiée des Forces armées

nauté étudiante ont offert des présentations sur le thème

canadiennes en raison de son orientation sexuelle, malgré un

« Vers l’égalité et la justice pour les personnes LGBTI ».

fulgurant début de carrière. La poursuite pour discrimination

Organisé par le Centre sur les droits de la personne et le

qu’elle a intentée contre le gouvernement a mené à l’abolition

pluralisme juridique (CDPPJ), le colloque rend hommage à

en 1992 des mesures discriminatoires anti-LGBTQ en place

Martine Roy (4), une ardente défenseuse de la justice pour

dans l’appareil fédéral depuis les débuts de la Guerre froide.

les communautés LGBTQ qui a été congédiée des Forces armées canadiennes en 1984 en raison de son orientation

« One of the greatest privileges of being an advocate is being

sexuelle. En 2016, lorsque les survivant.e.s de la Purge

entrusted with telling someone’s story through legal action [...]

intentèrent un recours collectif contre le gouvernement

it’s the heroes of these stories who, through their pain,

fédéral, Martine Roy fut l’une des représentantes du groupe.

sacrifice and courage, change things for everyone”, said

Ce recours a mené en 2018 à des excuses officielles

Mtre Audrey Boctor, BCL’05, LLB’05, (2) as she introduced

du Canada, accompagnées d’un dédommagement de

Michelle Douglas. Mtre Boctor served as lead counsel to the

145 millions de dollars pour les survivant.e.s.

Quebec class members in the 2016 LGBT Purge class action

La candidate au BCL/JD Andie Hoàng-Lefranc (5) a remporté

lawsuit against the Canadian government.

le prix Martine Roy pour son essai intitulé : « Family is a

“[Michelle Douglas] had to fight because people failed to do

Drag : Extra-Legal Formations of the White-Picket Dream ».

the right thing,” concluded the Hon. Alexander Pless, BCL’98,

« As an aspiring academic, it’s encouraging to know that my

LLB’98, (3) Quebec Superior Court judge and adjunct

work is deserving of recognition » a-t-elle déclaré. « I’m so

professor, highlighting that at the time of her dismissal

grateful for everyone who has helped me get to this point and

from the army, more than twenty years had passed since

I hope to continue to advocate in ways that live up to the efforts

Prime Minister Trudeau had declared that the State did not

of Martine Roy and Michelle Douglas ».

have its place in the bedrooms of the nation.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RSITY

Le colloque étudiant Martine Roy et la conférence Michelle Douglas se veulent un espace pour faire progresser l’égalité et l’accès à la justice pour les communautés LGBTQ à travers la recherche et l’engagement étudiant. Ces événements se tiendront aux deux ans à la Faculté de droit grâce au soutien permanent permis par un généreux don d’IMK Avocats, qui était l’un des cabinets de droit représentant les survivant.e.s de la purge LGBTQ lors de leur recours collectif contre le Gouvernement du Canada.

1

2

4

3

5

29

NOUVELLES DE LA FACULTÉ

Can solitary confinement be reformed or abolished in Canada?

By Karell Michaud Photos by Owen Egan / Joni Dufour

Data presented at the 2022 Michel Proulx roundtable painted a bleak picture of what goes on behind the walls of Canadian penitentiaries “If a society can recognize that even someone guilty

In 2019, Bill C-83 was introduced and became law in

of a serious crime possesses inalienable constitutional

Canada. It was hailed by the federal government as

and human rights, that is a sign of its commitment to

putting an end to solitary confinement. The new law

human dignity,” said Professor Mugambi Jouet in the

replaced administrative and disciplinary segregation with

introduction of the 2022 Michel Proulx roundtable.

“structured intervention units” (SIU) that would notably

This year’s roundtable was centered around Canada’s

provide inmates at least four hours a day outside their

recent attempt to reform solitary confinement. To

cells, regular human contact, and external assessors for

tackle this timely subject, Jouet welcomed two of the

prolonged SIU stays.

country’s foremost experts on the matter: Professor

After having analyzed the utilization data of these new

Emeritus Anthony Doob of University of Toronto, and

SIU, Doob and Sprott shared a troubling account of the

Professor Jane Sprott of Toronto Metropolitan Univer-

reform’s rollout. The United Nations Nelson Mandela

sity. Eminent criminologists, they have released three

Rules on Prisoners’ Rights define solitary confinement as

critical reports on Canada’s new administrative segre-

restricting a prisoner to their cell for twenty-two hours

gation regime which have garnered national attention.

per day or more. Sixteen days or more of such detention is defined as torture, or other cruel and inhumane punishment. Following these definitions, 28% of the SIU stays Doob and Sprott studied met the UN’s definition of “solitary.” 9% fit the definition of “torture”.

30

FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 0 2 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

“We need to open up prisons so people actually understand what’s happening at an operational level,” Doob stressed. He had chaired the advisory panel responsible for overseeing Correctional Services Canada’s (CSC) implementation of the Bill C-83 reform, and recounted dealing with an opaque institution unwilling to submit to external oversight. Over the year it was in activity, the panel had been unable to obtain any SIU data from CSC. The advisory panel disbanded and released a damning final report recounting their

Professor Mugambi Jouet The Honourable ALISON HARVISON

inability to carry out their mandate due to CSC’s lack

YOUNG, BC’83, LLB’83, a judge of the “Remember that the vast majority of [people in was Ontario Superior Court of Justice,

of cooperation, which was picked up by the media and pressured the then Public Safety Minister Bill Blair

prisons] will beappointed released one day,” Sprott concluded. to the Court of Appeal for

into intervening. Numbers came just a few weeks later.

“It’s in no one’sOntario. interestJustice to haveHarvison them go from these Young was a

The panel’s experience, Sprott highlighted, showed

sorts of environments membertoofour thestreets.”

Faculty of Law of McGill University from 1988-1998, teaching in the

how crucial strong political leadership would be in achieving effective reform; a dire perspective given the lack of voter appeal, she deplored.

areas of public, private and family law.

Watch the 2022 Michel Proulx Roundtable on Criminal Law: mcgill.ca/x/3gh

(left) Guest speakers Professor Emeritus Anthony Doob and Professor Jane Sprott

The Hon. Michel Proulx (1939-2007) devoted his life to the improvement of the criminal justice system and to the advancement of human rights in Canada. Called to the Quebec Bar in 1963, he became known as one of the finest criminal lawyers nationwide. In 1989, he was appointed to the Court of Appeal of Quebec. Michel Proulx taught Criminal Procedure and Evidence in Criminal Matters for over twenty years as an adjunct professor at the Faculty of Law. The Michel Proulx Roundtable Conferences in Criminal Law are hosted annually to honour his memory, and the McGill community is grateful to the Proulx family for making this event possible.

31

ALUMNI COMMUNITY

Retour resplendissant de la cérémonie de collation des grades Photos par Owen Egan / Joni Dufour

James (Sa’ke’j) Youngblood Henderson,

Après un hiatus de deux ans, le chant de la cornemuse a de nouveau retenti sur le campus de McGill.

La reprise des activités en présentiel à l’Université

C’est Béatrice Courchesne-Mackie, BCL/JD’22, ancienne

a permis la célébration en grande pompe de deux

présidente de l’Association des étudiant.e.s en droit, qui a

cérémonies de collation des grades : celle pour la

été élue majore de promotion. « The connections we have

promotion de 2022, ainsi qu’une cérémonie reportée

made, the jokes we have shared, and the calf strength we

pour les promotions de 2020 et 2021, qui à l’époque

have built by walking uphill will not be lost on us. Si nous

avaient dû se contenter d’une collation des grades

restons fidèles aux valeurs qui ont marqué notre cohorte,

virtuelle en raison de la pandémie.

comme la compassion et la communauté, le succès sera

Tant sur l’estrade que dans les rangs de l’audience,

inévitable », a-t-elle assuré à ses collègues.

la joie et l’enthousiasme étaient palpables sous la

Pour conclure, le doyen Robert Leckey, Ad E, a exprimé

grande tente. L’appel de chaque nom a été nourri

son estime envers une cohorte qui, en surcroît aux défis

de généreux applaudissements et acclamations. « La professeure Johanne Poirier brille autant dans la salle de classe que sur la scène internationale », a souligné Daniel Boyer, Ad E, bibliothécaire en La professeure

chef nouvellement à la retraite, en présentant

Johanne Poirier,

la récipiendaire du prix d’excellence en enseignement

récipiendaire

John W. Durnford 2022. Il s’agit de la deuxième fois

du prix Durnford

MSRC, LLD’22

que la communauté étudiante lui décerne ce prix, qui souligne la pédagogie exceptionnelle d’un membre du corps professoral.

James (Sa’ke’j) Youngblood Henderson, MSRC, LLD’22, une autorité mondialement reconnue en savoirs, héritage et jurisprudence autochtones, a reçu un doctorat honorifique et offert le discours d’envoi à la nouvelle cohorte. Il a exhorté les finissantes et finissants à repousser les limites du possible et à aspirer

intrinsèques des études en droit, avaient eu à s’adapter et persévérer durant les nombreux changements entraînés par la pandémie. « Dans notre grande faculté, vous avez étudié et vécu le droit d’une manière unique. Vous nous quittez habileté.e.s à penser le droit différemment des diplômé.e.s d’ailleurs – votre imagination ayant été stimulée par la sagesse de plus d’une tradition juridique », a-t-il souligné. « Vous avez donc plusieurs cordes à votre arc qui vous permettront de briller dans des conditions incertaines et fluctuantes. »

Visionner la cérémonie de collation des grades de la promotion 2022 : https://mcgill.ca/x/3GB Visionner la cérémonie de reprise pour les promotions 2020 et 2021 : https://mcgill.ca/x/3G2

à créer le changement qu’ils veulent voir au sein de leur

Lire le discours d’envoi du doyen Robert Leckey :

communauté. « In a life of law, you will have hesitancies,

https://mcgill.ca/x/3G6

setbacks, and triumphs, but a life of law is a high responsibility, and an amazing journey into a future which we all hope will be better », a-t-il confié.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

Réception festive au Faculty Club Photos par Paul Fournier

Après la cérémonie de collation des grades, la Faculté de droit a accueilli les membres de la promotion de 2022 et leurs proches dans le somptueux bâtiment centenaire du Cercle universitaire de McGill (Faculty Club) afin de célébrer le nouveau chapitre qui s’ouvre devant eux. (en haut) Me John Lennard, BCL/LLB’11, membre du Comité consultatif de la Faculté et associé chez Stikeman Elliott, a félicité la nouvelle cohorte, en l’encourageant à prendre part à la vibrante communauté diplômée de la Faculté de droit.

Jemark Earle, BCL/JD’22; Kim-Lan Dam, BCL/JD’22; le doyen Robert Leckey, Ad E, hôte de la réception; et la majore de promotion Béatrice Courchesne-Mackie, BCL/JD’22.

(en haut) Poursuivant une tradition chère à la Faculté de droit, cette réception a marqué sur une note joyeuse l’entrée de la nouvelle cohorte dans la communauté internationale des diplômé.e.s en droit de McGill. (en haut) David How, BCL/JD’22, et sa mère Angela . (à droite) Sayre Potter, BCL/JD’22, et ses invités.

33

ALUMNI COMMUNITY

Outstanding alumni honoured by the McGill Alumni Association Spring 2022 marked the in-person comeback of the McGill Alumni Association’s Honours and Awards banquet, a celebration of distinguished members of the McGill community. Each year, the MAA recognizes those who have made standout contributions and achievements in service of the University, alumni life, and their respective communities. The Faculty of Law proudly presents those who were celebrated in person this year — and those who had a more subdued virtual presentation in 2021.

Annamaria Enenajor, BCL/LLB’12 2021 JAMES G. WRIGHT AWARD With a passion for social justice,

Anthony “Tony” Fata, BCL/LLB’90 2021 E. P. TAYLOR AWARD

a dedication to excellence in her work, and a resolute focus on confronting systemic racism,

Tony Fata often says that his McGill law degrees gave him the

Annamaria Enenajor embodies the best qualities of McGill’s young

tools to understand the world

alumni. After graduating, she clerked at the Supreme

and that, in turn, he gives back

Court of Canada, devoted many hours to pro bono

to McGill through his energetic

practice in civil rights cases, and joined the law

support for and involvement in his

firm where she is now a name partner, Ruby Shiller

alma mater. He leads by example, whether by spear-

Enenajor DiGiuseppe, Barristers, focusing on criminal

heading VIP salon breakfasts to re-engage alumni or by

and constitutional law. As executive director of the

contributing to his graduating class 10th anniversary

Campaign for Cannabis Amnesty, she is a leading

project and the Daniel Jutras International Graduate

advocate for the half-million Canadians who carry a

Student Award. He and his wife created the Teresa and

criminal record for simple possession of the drug.

Tony Fata Fund for Innovation in Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Law. In 2016, he joined the Faculty Advisory Board, becoming its chair in 2020.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

Khadija Ahmed, BCL/JD Candidate

Amélia Souffrant, BCL/JD Candidate

2021 CHANCELLOR GRETTA CHAMBERS STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD

2022 CHANCELLOR GRETTA CHAMBERS STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD

Since beginning her studies

A co-president of the Black Law

at the Faculty of Law, Khadija

Students’ Association of McGill

Ahmed has been an exceptionally

during 2021-22, Amélia Souffrant

active student, notably serving as

is a collaborative leader working

co-president of the McGill Muslim

to improve life for others. Her

Law Students’ Association. She

family circumstances and her

has been involved, among others, in the Women of

experience as a Black woman have inspired her to

Colour Collective, the Legal Information Clinic, the

pursue a career addressing issues of systemic discrim-

McGill Law Journal, and the executive of the McGill

ination in the justice system. In 2019, she was selected

Law Students’ Association. She contributed to orga-

by the Institut du Nouveau Monde to write an opinion

nizing a march against Quebec’s Bill 21 and spoke

shared with Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la

eloquently to local media on behalf of the McGill

Francisation et de l’Intégration on a project exploring

Muslim Law Students’ Association. She has demon-

challenges and innovative approaches to living in

strated a remarkable commitment to fostering the

community. Black Girls Gather, a book club she

inclusion of Muslims within Quebec and Canadian

co-founded in 2021, uses Black literature as a point

society, and to working with others to build bridges

of departure for discussions on race and identity, and

and understanding.

won a Forces AVENIR award for shaping engaged and community-oriented citizens. In spring 2022,

Jordan H. Waxman, BA’86, LLB’91, BCL’92

she received a Scarlet Key.

2022 E. P. TAYLOR AWARD After a 14-hour swim across the English Channel — part of his journey to becoming the first Canadian man to complete the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming — Jordan Waxman proudly held up the McGill flag on the shoreline in France. Holder of three McGill degrees, he is wonderfully supportive of his alma mater. Jordan is president of The Friends of McGill University, Inc., in the United States, a director on the Regional Advisory Board — US (East Coast), and a member of the Faculty Advisory Board. His extensive philanthropic support includes funding the Scarlet Key Society’s pinning ceremony each year and underwriting the Faculty’s events in New York City.

Florence Ashley, BCL/LLB’17, LLM’20 2022 JAMES G. WRIGHT AWARD A doctoral candidate at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Law who has clerked at the Supreme Court of Canada, Florence Ashley is a brilliant young scholar with an extensive publication record. They are committed to serving and sharing knowledge within their communities — the transgender community, as well as the medical/ bioethical and legal communities. Their advocacy is broad and includes linguistic issues, medical ethics, research ethics, and the legality of so-called conversion therapy — including serving as an expert witness in special consultations and public hearings on Bill 70.

In 2022, UBC Press published a monograph developed from their master’s thesis, Banning Transgender Conversion Practices: A Legal and Policy Analysis.

35

In Memoriam Izak Almaleh, LLB’86, BCL’86 Thomas Bernier-Villeneuve, BCL/LLB’19 Ben Bierbrier, QC, BCL’67 Leonard H. Bierbrier, BCL’68 Brahm B. L. Campbell, BCL’61 Carol Delisle, LLB’91, BCL’91 William Mark Dresser, BCL’85, LLB’85 Andre F. Durso, BCL’60

Stephen A. Smith

William N. Gagnon, BCL’57 Louis B. Gascon, BCL’70 A. Jean de Grandpré, BCL’43, LLD’81 Colin A. Gravenor, BCL’67 Saul Handelman, BCL’61 Pierre M. Hébert, BCL’69 Richard André Hinse, BCL’74 A. Stuart Hyndman, QC, BCL’52

The Honourable ALISON HARVISON 1958-2022

YOUNG, BC’83, LLB’83, a judge of the

S

Ontario Superior Court of Justice, was tephen A. Smith joined the Faculty of Law as an associate professor in appointed to the Court of Appeal for 1998, being promoted to full professor in 2004 and named a James McGill Ontario. Justice Harvison Young was a Professor in 2009. His doctoral studies at Balliol College, University of member of the Faculty of Law of McGill Oxford, had followed a BA in political science from Queen’s University and University from 1988-1998, teaching in the an LLB from the University of Toronto. In 1989, he clerked for Chief Justice Brian areas of public, private and family law.

Dickson of the Supreme Court of Canada.

The Hon. Donald James Johnston, BCL’58, LLD’03

A prolific and respected scholar, he is the author of Contract Theory (2004), Atiyah’s

Mitchell H. Klein, BCL’60

The Structure of Remedial Law (2019), and many articles and chapters. His scholarly

Denyse Richer La Fleche, BCL’53

contributions were recognized by a Killam Fellowship from the Canada Council for

Yolande Landry, BCL’77

the Arts (2008), appointment as a New Zealand Law Foundation Distinguished

David B. Leibson, BCL’70, LLB’71 John Brian MacFarlane, LLB’90, BCL’90 Kathryn Harris Mason, BCL’54

Introduction to the Law of Contract, 6th ed (2005), Rights, Wrongs, and Injustices:

Fellow (2017), and his election as a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (2020).

Trained in the common law, Professor Smith embraced the learning of the civil law and became a respected professor of Contractual Obligations and Extra-contractual Obligations (Torts), foundational courses in our integrated, double-degree program.

Michael S. Mather, BCL’59

It is proof of his curiosity and commitment to lifelong learning that, as a renowned

David Clark McPhillips, LLB’74

scholar of contracts, he should exchange the main course in his doctrinal area for

Stuart Millowitz, BCL’60 Jean-Norbert Ouellette, BCL’79 The Hon. Deborah Jeannine Paquette, LB’81

Torts — for the sheer joy of the new challenge.

Kind, gentle, thoughtful, and unassuming, Professor Smith was a wise and deeply collegial citizen of the Faculty of Law and the university. He spoke directly and honestly, exuding what one colleague characterized as his “trademark quiet confidence.”

Bernard Gordon Pennee, BCL’74, LLB’75

He served as associate dean (graduate studies and research) from 1999–2001 and

The Hon. Eva Marie Petras, LLB’80, BCL’80

chaired the Faculty of Law’s Space Committee for many years, overseeing the

Marvin P. Rosenhek, BCL’53 Bernard Rubenstein, BCL’50 Gary L. Ruby, BCL’73

planning and execution of renovations to New Chancellor Day Hall’s first, third, fifth, and sixth floors.

Several colleagues took Professor Smith as exemplary in living and enjoying a balanced life, one marked by curiosity and intense engagement. He read fiction and

Victor Edwin Rudinskas, BCL’77, LLB’77

nonfiction constantly. He loved good food and cooking. He had a wonderful sense

Anthony W. Ryan, LLB’72

of humour. He was kind in everyday interactions and intellectual ones, framing his

Tom Schneider, LLB’89, BCL’89 Neil D. Shee, BCL’62 John J. Swidler, BCL’69 Allan S. Tanny, BCL’73 Robert C. Wetenhall, LLD’12

disagreements constructively in challenging conversations that he relished.

Professor Smith cherished his colleagues and they cherished him.

Our thoughts are with his family, and all who knew and loved him, as we did.

Robert Leckey, Ad. E. Dean and Samuel Gale Professor of Law

Harvey W. Yarosky, BCL’61 36

FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

ALUMNOTES

60’s and 70’s Stephen Cheasley, BCL’62, was elected president of the Canadian Railroad Historical Association Foundation, which supports Exporail, the Canadian Railway Museum in Delson−SaintConstant, Quebec.

Joel King, BCL’71, LLB’72, received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers in recognition of his service for, among others, Federation CJA’s Combined Jewish Appeal Campaign and the cancer non-profit Hope & Cope.

James O’Reilly, OC, OQ, Ad E, BCL’63, a été nommé chevalier de l’Ordre national du Québec pour son rôle d’avocat pionnier en droit autochtone. Depuis 50 ans, Me O’Reilly œuvre pour l’affirmation des droits ancestraux et l’autodétermination des Premières Nations.

Norman M. Steinberg, BCL’75, has joined the board of ATCO. He is vice-chair of BFL Canada, and serves on the boards of BFL Canada, Dorel Industries, and Fiera Capital. He chairs the McGill University Health Centre Foundation, co-chairs the non-profit Women in Governance, and is involved in various other organizations. Over his 43-year career at Norton Rose Fulbright and its predecessor firm Ogilvy Renault, he held numerous senior leadership roles, including global chair of Norton Rose.

80’s

KATHLEEN WEIL, BCL’82, LLB’82, a terminé sa carrière de députée The Honourable ALISON HARVISON libérale de la circonscription de YOUNG, BC’83, LLB’83, a judge of the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce, qu’elle avait Ontario Superior Court of Justice, was représentée depuis 2008, en ne se appointed to the Court of Appeal for présentant pas aux élections proOntario. Justice Harvison Young was a vinciales du 3 octobre. Au cours de member of the Faculty of Law of McGill sa carrière à l’Assemblée nationale, University from 1988-1998, teaching in the elle a notamment été ministre de areas of public, private and family law. la Justice et procureure générale du Québec en 2008, et ministre de

Bernard Amyot, Ad E, BCL’82, LLB’83, a été intronisé à l’International Society of

l’Immigration et des Communautés culturelles de 2010 à 2017.

Barristers à titre de fellow. L’adhésion à DICK POUND, CC, OQ, QC, FCA,

cette société est réservée aux avocats de

BCL’67, LLD’09, a annoncé qu’il pren-

talent qui se démarquent notamment par

dra sa retraite du Comité international

leur excellence, leur professionnalisme,

olympique (CIO) à la fin de l’année. Il

ainsi que l’intégrité et la collégialité dont

recevra à son départ le titre de mem-

ils font preuve devant les tribunaux.

bre honoraire. Au cours de ses 44

Marc Barbeau, BCL’84, LLB’84, a été

tration du Palais des congrès de Montréal,

nommé vice-président général et chef des

elle a précédemment mené une longue

affaires juridiques à Air Canada en juillet

carrière d’avocate associée chez Ogilvy

2021. Il était précédemment président du

Renault, devenu Norton Rose Fulbright,

conseil d’administration chez Stikeman

et a été la présidente-directrice générale

Elliott, où il a pratiqué le droit des affaires

de la Fondation de l’Institut de cardiologie

pendant plus de 26 ans. Professeur auxi-

de Montréal.

liaire à la Faculté de droit, Marc Barbeau

Henri Pallard, LLB’85, a reçu l’Ordre

années au CIO, il a notamment servi deux mandats comme vice-président, et il a été responsable de toutes les négociations relatives à la diffusion télévisuelle des Olympiques, au marketing et aux commandites jusqu’aux Jeux de Beijing de 2008, inclusivement. Il a été le président fondateur de l’Agence mondiale antidopage, créée en 1999. Son lien avec l’organisation olympique remonte à l’année 1960, alors que Me Pound avait compétitionné comme nageur aux Olympiques d’été à Rome.

est également membre de son comité consultatif.

Josée Noiseux, BCL’89, a été reconduite comme membre indépendante du conseil d’administration du Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal, où elle siège depuis 2018. La présidente du conseil d’adminis-

du mérite de l’Association des juristes d’expression française de l’Ontario.

Claude Marseille, Ad E, BCL’86, LLB’86, a

Professeur titulaire en droit à l’Université

reçu le Prix d’excellence en mentorat de la

Laurentienne à Sudbury, le professeur

Société des plaideurs lors de son quatrième

Pallard y a notamment fondé le départe-

gala annuel. L’honorable Mahmud Jamal,

ment francophone de Droit et justice

BCL’93, LLB’93, juge à la Cour suprême

en 1986.

du Canada, a par ailleurs offert l’allocution d’honneur à cet événement.

37

ALUMNOTES Louise Potvin, LLM’82, DCL’89, a terminé

Philippe Dufresne, BCL’98, LLB’98,

une carrière enrichissante de 34 ans au

was appointed privacy commissioner of

ministère de la Justice du Canada, où elle

Canada by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

exerçait principalement dans le domaine

He had been appointed law clerk and

du droit autochtone. Son mémoire de

parliamentary counsel of the House of

maîtrise et sa thèse de doctorat, tous deux

Commons in February 2015.

en droit comparé, ont été fréquemment

Ron Finley, LLB’98, has joined the Hoge

mentionnés par les tribunaux, y inclus

Fenton law firm in San Jose, California,

par la Cour suprême du Canada.

as co-chair of the Intellectual Property

Stuart Russell, BCL’81, LLB’82, has been

and Data Privacy group.

appointed to the Advisory Panel of the

The Hon. Steven Hinkley, LLB’99, has

Afghan Women Judges Visual Storytelling Project, based in New York City. As a member of the nomination committee of the Edelstam Prize, a human rights prize based in Sweden, he nominated two Afghan women — a lawyer and a law professor — for the prestigious award.

The Hon. LOUIS CHARETTE,

been named a judge on the Provincial

BCL’94, LLB’94, was appointed to

Court of Alberta, northern region. At the

the Superior Court of Quebec for

time of his appointment, he was a chief

the District of Montreal. The former

crown prosecutor in Grande Prairie.

partner at Lavery de Billy is listed

Sonia Keshwar, BCL’96, LLB’96, was

in Best Lawyers in Canada 2021 as a leading practitioner in aviation,

Ann Soden, Ad E, BCL’81, LLB’82, s’est

insurance, transportation, and

vu décerner le Prix Justice Pro Bono 2021

product liability. He received the

pendant la cérémonie de remise de la

Lawyer of the Year award in the field

distinction Avocat émérite du Barreau

of transportation law in 2020. He

du Québec. Une pionnière au Canada

has lectured on civil procedure at

en droits des aînés, elle a fondé en 2007

the Faculty.

appointed managing director and global head of compliance and governance at Slate Asset Management, where she oversees all personnel and activities from a perspective of governance and the management of regulatory risk.

la clinique juridique pro bono des aînés, une initiative permettant aux étudiants en droit d’être sensibilisés aux problèmes

The Hon. Melanie Del Rizzo, KC, LLB’94,

d’ordre social et juridique auxquels sont

was appointed a judge of the Supreme

confrontés les aînés les moins fortunés.

Court of Newfoundland and Labrador, Family Division. She was previously a partner at St. John’s law firm Smyth

90’s

Woodland Del Rizzo Barrett, and served

Keith Bergner, LLB’96, has been rec-

on the Canadian Bar Association National

ognized by the Best Lawyers in Canada

Board of Directors.

directory for the 10th consecutive year.

He also received the 2022 Benchmark Litigation Canada Award for the Aboriginal Litigator of the Year. A partner at Lawson e

Lundell, M Bergner advises private sector, public sector and government clients on Indigenous law and regulatory matters.

Isabelle Daoust, BCL’96, LLB’96, has been appointed deputy chief executive at the Canadian Bar Association. Over her 25-year career spanning three continents, she worked for the Canadian Red Cross and in the federal public service.

Jennifer Dibblee, LLB’90, was appointed chief legal officer and corporate secretary of BDC. In this role, she provides legal support and advice to all business units and corporate functions as well as BDC’s board.

VÉRONIQUE HIVON, BCL’94, LLB’94, en ne se présentant pas aux élections d’octobre, a fermé le chapitre de sa vie politique comme députée du Parti québécois dans la circonscription de Joliette. Au cours

Wade Dougherty, BCL’98, LLB’98, was

de ses 14 années à l’Assemblée

named managing director at Goldman

nationale, elle a notamment joué

Sachs & Co. in New York. Prior to joining

un rôle central dans l’élaboration et

the firm in 2013, he was managing direc-

l’adoption de la Loi concernant les

tor and head of Investment Banking Legal

soins de fin de vie. Elle a aussi été

at Oppenheimer & Co. (formerly CIBC

vice-cheffe du Parti québécois durant

World Markets Corp).

la campagne électorale de 2018.

38

FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

Laverne Jacobs, BCL’99, LLB’99, became the first Canadian to be elected to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. A professor at the University of Windsor Faculty of Law, Professor Jacobs has dedicated her career to teaching and research in the areas of disability law, administrative law, and human rights.

Alex Johnston, BCL’99, LLB’99, authored Inconceivable: My Life-Altering, Eye-Opening Journey from Infertility to Motherhood (Sutherland House, 2021). She is the chief executive officer of 360 Concussion Care since 2020. From 2012 to 2016, she ran the Canadian office of Catalyst Inc.,

Advocatus Emeritus Lors du Gala du Barreau du Québec 2021, le Barreau a célébré l’octroi de la distinction honorifique Avocat émérite à ses récipiendaires de 2020 et de 2021. Huit membres de notre communauté diplômée ont reçu la prestigieuse distinction :

· Maria Rita Battaglia, Ad E, BCL’89, LLB’89 · Danielle Chalifoux, Ad E, LLM’99 · Nancy Cleman, Ad E, BCL’81, LLB’81 · Irwin Cotler, OC, OQ, Ad E, BCL’64, LLD’19 · Hugo Cyr, Ad E, BCL’77, LLB’77 · Sharon Gail Druker, Ad E, BCL’85, LLB’85 · Bernard Duhaime, Ad E, BCL’98, LLB’98 · Robert Leckey, Ad E, BCL/LLB’02

a global non-profit advocating for the advancement of women in business. She

Deux autres diplômés ont reçu cette distinction lors du Gala du Barreau

serves on the board of the Desjardins

du Québec 2022, tenu le 15 novembre :

General Insurance Group and co-chairs the board of the McGill Institute for the Study of Canada.

· L’honorable Clément Gascon, Ad E, BCL’81 · L’honorable David E. Roberge, Ad E, BCL’01, LLB’01

Howard Manis, BCL’91, LLB’91, has opened a law firm called Manis Law LLP, specializing in bankruptcy and insolvency, commercial and civil litigation, and corporate law.

Paul Moen, LLB’93, has been reappointed chief of staff to the Honourable Seamus

Isabelle Marcoux, CM, BCL’94, a reçu

O’Regan, who moved from being Canada’s

le Prix Michèle-Thibodeau-DeGuire de

minister of natural resources to minister

Centraide Montréal en reconnaissance

of labour following the last federal

de sa contribution exceptionnelle

election. Isabelle Daoust, BCL/LLB’96,

à titre de bénévole. M Marcoux est

and Me Moen have two children and live

présidente du conseil d’administration

in Ottawa; their daughter Béatrice is a

de Transcontinental inc.

McGill arts student.

Larry Markowitz, BCL’95, LLB’95, was

Marko Pavliha, DCL’92, has received

appointed Senior Director, Financial

the Golden Plaque of the University of

Communications, at NATIONAL Public

Ljubljana, which is awarded for excep-

CATHERINE MCKENNA, LLB’99,

Relations. Prior to joining NATIONAL in

tional contributions to the development of

was named chair of the UN Sec-

2019, he practiced corporate finance law

scientific, pedagogical, or artistic endeav-

retary-General High-Level Expert

for 15 years, and helped launch several

ours, and for strengthening the reputation

Group on the Net-Zero Emissions

businesses, including CoPower inc.,

of the University. Marko is professor of

Commitments of Non-State Entities.

a social enterprise that finances clean

international maritime law, transport law,

The group, consisting of indepen-

energy projects.

and insurance law at the University of

dent experts from around the world,

e

Ljubljana in Portorož, Slovenia.

will develop stronger standards to assess net-zero emissions pledges by non-State entities, including businesses, to prevent “greenwashing.”

39

ALUMNOTES

Sophie Perreault, BCL’93, LLB’93, a

L’hon. Daniel Urbas, BCL’91, LLB’91,

été intronisée au prestigieux American

a été nommé juge puîné de la Cour

College of Trial Lawyers. Associée chez

supérieure du Québec à Montréal. Il était

Langlois Avocats et présidente de son

auparavant associé chez Borden Ladner

conseil d’administration, Me Perreault a

Gervais, où il a dirigé la pratique de litige

également été nommée parmi les Étoiles

en propriété intellectuelle à l’échelle

du litige 2022 de Benchmark Litigation

nationale.

Canada.

L’hon. Marie-Claude Rigaud, BCL’92 LLB’92, a été nommée juge puînée de la Cour supérieure du Québec à Montréal.

Avant sa nomination, elle était professeure à la Faculté de droit de l’Université de Montréal.

Lisa Shemie, BCL’94, LLB’94, was named general counsel and corporate secretary at OANDA. Responsible for overseeing the firm’s legal function worldwide, she also sits on its executive committee from her base in New York.

2000’s Kathy Bellefleur, DCL’00, a été nommée professeure de droit civil à la Faculté de droit de l’Université Laval. Elle s’intéresse aux théories de la propriété, au droit des biens, au droit comparé et aux traditions autochtones.

SARAH WOODS, BCL/LLB’03, was named a fellow of the American Bar Foundation, an honorary organization of lawyers, judges, and legal scholars whose public and private

Mathieu Bouchard, BCL/LLB’00, joined

careers have demonstrated dedica-

KPMG LLP, in Montreal, as executive

tion to the highest principles of the

director and leader, impact strategy —

legal profession and the welfare of

industrial and commercial innovation,

their communities. She has joined

where he is focused on positioning the

McCarthy Tétrault as a litigation

Itai Sneh, LLB’93, associate professor in

firm and its clients at the forefront

partner.

world civilizations, human rights, and

of technological and environmental

international law at the History Depart-

changes.

ment of the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, is using his sabbatical to research his book The Encrusted Underside of Glory? The book explores injustice, inequality, and struggles in American legal history.

Marie-Claire Cordonier Segger, BCL’02, LLB’02, was elected a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. A pioneer in sustainable development law and governance, she is a full professor at the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development at the University of Waterloo.

L’hon. Mélanie Dugré, BCL’00, LLB’00, a été nommée juge à la Cour du Québec.

Au moment de sa nomination, elle était vice-présidente adjointe aux affaires juridiques de la compagnie d’assurance Canada Vie. Shaun E. Finn, BCL/LLB’02, partner at BCF and co-leader of the firm’s Class Action Defence group, joined the Interna-

The Hon. AZIM HUSSAIN, BCL’00, LLB’00, has been appointed puisne judge of the Superior Court of Quebec for the district of Montreal.

He previously was a partner at Montreal law firm NOVAlex.

tional Association of Defense Counsel, an invitation-only global legal organization for attorneys who represent corporate and insurance interests. He was named a fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America in 2021.

L’hon. Philippe de Grandmont, LLM’06, a été nommé juge à la Cour du Québec.

Au moment de sa nomination, il était directeur des affaires juridiques à l’Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain.

Natalka Haras, BCL/LLB’09, senior counsel at ADP Canada, was selected as a fellow of the Leadership Counsel on Legal Diversity by ADP’s Global Legal and Compliance Departments.

Joseph P. Hillier, BCL/LLB’08, was named one of Canadian Lawyer’s Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers of 2021. He is chief of staff in the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General.

Claudie Imbleau-Chagnon, LLM’07, a été nommée présidente du conseil d’administration du Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal. Elle est vice-présidente aux investissements et aux affaires juridiques chez Ivanhoe Cambridge, où elle a débuté en 2015 à titre de consultante.

40

FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

Reisa Khalifa, BCL/LLB’02, was

L’hon. David E. Roberge, Ad E, BCL’01,

Samuel Singer, BCL/LLB’09, LLM’11,

appointed a full-time member of the

LLB’01, alors qu’il était associé chez

was co-recipient of the Canadian Bar

Refugee Appeal division of the Immigra-

McCarthy Tétrault, a reçu le Prix Paris

Association’s Sexual Orientation and

tion and Refugee Board, Canada’s largest

Québec, décerné par Justice Pro Bono

Gender Identity Community Section

administrative tribunal, where she has

Québec et le Barreau de Paris Solidarité.

Hero Award, which recognizes excellence

worked since 2018.

Son conseil juridique auprès de personnes

within the legal profession in advancing

Amar Khoday, LLM’08, DCL’14, is an

vivant avec le VIH-sida, sa collaboration

the cause of equality for LGBTQ2+

avec Avocats sans frontières en Haïti et

people. Singer is assistant professor

son implication sur des enjeux d’égalité

at the University of Ottawa’s Faculty

auprès des communautés LGBTQ ont été

of Law.

associate professor at the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Law. He is the 2021 recipient of the Terry G. Falconer Memorial Winnipeg Rh Institute Foun-

soulignés lors de la remise du prix.

dation Emerging Researcher Award in the Humanities category. His article “Black Voices Matter Too: CounterNarrating Smithers v The Queen” was published in the Osgoode Hall Law Journal in December 2021.

Law alumni appointed McGill Governors

Eva Krajewska, BCL/LLB’08, joined Henein Hutchison as partner. She

MARYSE BERTRAND, Ad E, BCL’80, has become the first woman to chair

practices civil litigation, public and

McGill University’s Board of Governors. She had previously served as member-

administrative law, appellate advocacy, and estate disputes. She has been rec-

at-large of the board (2016-2018) and board vice-chair (2018-2022).

Me Bertrand brings a wealth of experience as a lawyer, and as a corporate

ognized in the Best Lawyers in Canada

director — she is on the board of grocery store chain Metro Inc,

directory in Appellate Practice since

and National Bank, among others. A former partner at Davies Ward

2020 and in Administrative and Public Law in 2022, and was named a Lexpert Rising Star: Leading Lawyer under 40 in 2021.

Manon Lavoie, LLM’03, a été nommée présidente de conseil de discipline du Bureau des présidents des conseils de discipline. Elle est avocate associée chez

Phillips & Vineberg, Bertrand received the Quebec Bar Association’s Advocatus Emeritus distinction for her exceptional contribution to the practice of law.

Robust contributions to university governance by other members of the McGill Law community have included terms as chair by STUART “KIP” COBBETT, BCL’72, LLD’19 (2010-17) and DICK POUND, CC, OQ, QC, FCA, BCL’67, LLD’09 (1994-99).

Therrien Couture Joli-Cœur. Avant son

Carrying on this tradition, GREGORY DAVID, BCL’93, LLB’93,

admission au barreau en 2009, elle a été

ARIEL DECKELBAUM, BCL’98, LLB’98, and DILETTA PRANDO, BCL’87,

chargée de cours aux facultés de droit

LLB’87, have been appointed members-at-large of the Board.

de l’Université de Sherbrooke et de l’Université d’Ottawa.

Ali Martin-Mayer, BCL/LLB’02, a été

STEPHEN HALPERIN, BCL’75, LLB’78, and FRED HEADON, BCL’96, LLB’96, have been serving as governors since 2012 and 2020, respectively.

nommée directrice des admissions et du

SAMUEL MINZBERG, BCL’73, LLB’79, has been named governor emeritus,

recrutement pour l’Université McGill.

after having served since 2011.

Après avoir occupé divers rôles administratifs à la Faculté de droit de 2006 à 2017, dont celui de doyenne adjointe aux admissions, Me Martin-Mayer a pratiqué le droit comme avocate au

The Board of Governors is the University’s highest governing body.

Composed of 25 voting members, and two observers, it has final authority over the conduct of all academic, business, and financial affairs of the University.

service juridique de McGill de 2017 à 2022.

41

ALUMNOTES Pierre-Hugues Verdier, BCL’01, LLB’01,

Rachel Davidson, BCL/LLB’16, took on the

has become a member of the American

role of senior associate at Georgetown Law

Law Institute. A professor at the University

Center’s Center on Privacy and Technol-

of Virginia School of Law, he specializes

ogy, where she leads their research and

in public international law, banking and

advocacy on the surveillance of immigrant

financial regulation, and international

communities. Her article “The Racial

economic relations.

Justice Imperative to Reimagine Immi-

Erin Zipes, BCL/LLB’03, was appointed as

grant Children’s Rights: Special Immigrant

1Password’s first chief legal officer to help the company scale to meet demand for

SARA ROSS, BCL/LLB’12, was named one of the Top 25 Most Influential Lawyers by Canadian Lawyer

40 award by L’Expert in late 2021.

She was the co-editor-in-chief of the Canadian Legal Education Annual Review, treasurer of the Canadian Association of Law Teachers, and vice-president of the Canadian Law and Society Association. She has been an assistant professor at the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University since September 2021.

in 2022 in the American University

its security solutions. She co-founded the

Law Review.

angel investing collective Backbone Angels,

Patrick Garon-Sayegh, BCL/LLB’10,

which is dedicated to funding and empow-

LLM’17, a été nommé professeur en

ering female and non-binary founders.

droit judiciaire à la Faculté de droit de l’Université de Montréal. Ses travaux

Magazine and was a recipient of the Rising Stars: Leading Lawyers Under

Juveniles as a Case Study” was published

s’intéressent à des questions fondamentales

2010’s

liées à la preuve et situées à l’intersection

Katarina Daniels, BCL/LLB’15, has

de la philosophie des sciences, de la philo-

joined Davies Ward Philips & Vineberg as

sophie du droit et de la rhétorique. Il étudie

manager of library services and research

notamment comment la preuve et l’exper-

lawyer. She worked at the Nahum Gelber

tise scientifique sont mobilisées dans le

Law Library from 2019 to 2021, among

cadre de désaccords de nature médicale.

other things teaching advanced legal research and legal technology workshops during Focus Week. In winter 2023, she will return to the Faculty of Law to teach legal research to the first-year class.

Vague de nominations à la magistrature

JEANSIL BRUYÈRE, BCL/LLB’16, was appointed to the board of Fierté Montréal Pride and co-chair of the

Le 11 octobre, quatre membres de la communauté diplômée

Canada Pride 2022 Human Rights

ont été nommés juges à la Cour supérieure du Québec :

Conference hosted by Winnipeg

· L’honorable Renée Thériault, BCL’93, LLB’93 · L’honorable Janet Michelin, BCL’96, LLB’96 · L’honorable Catherine Piché, DCL’11 · L’honorable David E. Roberge, Ad E, BCL’01, LLB’01

Pride. He is a board member at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, Eastern Region.

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FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

Émilie Horrocks-Denis, BCL/LLB’18, has

Jae-Yeon Lim, BCL/LLB’11, welcomed

left private practice in Montreal and joined

baby daughter Freya Adaline Rourke.

the federal civil service as a senior policy

She celebrated her 10th year of prac-

advisor with the Department of Finance.

tice in Canadian immigration law and

She is working for a division of the Tax

was a presenter on “Addressing Racism

Policy Branch responsible for intergovern-

& Unconscious Bias in the Practice of

mental taxation agreements, a role that

Immigration Law” at the Canadian Bar

enables her to draw on her background in

Association’s National Immigration

law and political science.

Conference.

Alexandra Klein, LLM’11, a joint le Mouvement Desjardins comme leader de JINNIE LIU, BCL/LLB’17, s’est jointe à la pratique en droit fiscal de Stikeman Elliott. Elle prête conseil à des entreprises au Canada et à l’étranger sur tous les aspects du

pratique du département d’immigration d’affaires, après avoir pratiqué le droit de l’immigration pendant 10 ans, notamment

The Honourable ALISON HARVISON

chez Campbell Cohen Worsoff, BCF et

YOUNG, BC’83, LLB’83, a judge of the

Gomberg Dalfen.

Ontario Superior Court of Justice, was

droit fiscal. Son travail se concentre

Anne Iavarone-Turcotte, LLM’15, DCL’21,

particulièrement sur les questions

a reçu trois récompenses pour sa thèse

transactionnelles touchant les

doctorale : le prix de la meilleure thèse de

fusions et acquisitions et les réor-

l’Association des doyennes et des doyens

ganisations d’entreprises.

des études supérieures au Québec, la médaille d’or de la Gouverneure général et le McGill Alumni Association Graduate

James Gibson, BCL/LLB’11, joined

Award.

Naymark Law as partner, after working as

Gregory Ko, BCL/LLB’11, a partner at

litigation counsel for the Ontario Securities Commission, where he carried out administrative prosecutions under the province’s Securities Act. His practice includes a wide range of matters, including corporatecommercial litigation, regulatory proceedings, and professional liability matters.

Michael Gilson, LLM’13, has been made partner at Davis Polk in New York. A member of the Mergers & Acquisitions practice, he advises U.S. and international corporate and private equity clients on a range of public and private transactions, domestic and cross-border.

Kastner Lam who practices civil litigation, received a 2022 Precedent Setter Award from Precedent Magazine. The publication highlighted his commitment to defending people contending with

appointed to the Court of Appeal for Ontario. Justice Harvison Young was a member of the Faculty of Law of McGill University from 1988-1998, teaching in the areas of public, private and family law.

ALAIN BABINEAU, BCL/JD’19, took on the role of director of racial profiling and public security at the Red Coalition. A retired RCMP officer, he is a well-known expert on racial profiling who was hired last year by Montreal’s commissioner on racism and systemic discrimination to promote change within the force.

discrimination, employment termination, and harassment.

Ngozi Okidegbe, BCL/LLB’15, joined

Michael Lang, BCL/LLB’18, LLM’22, has

Boston University as the first professor

taken up a position as advisor in the Office

dually appointed to the School of Law

of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics

(associate professor) and the Faculty

Commissioner, Parliament of Canada.

of Computing and Data Sciences

Sandra Aigbinode Lange, BCL/LLB’14,

(assistant professor).

was named one of Calgary’s Top 40 under

Kiran Ross, BCL/LLB’15, s’est jointe au

40 by Avenue Magazine. A litigator at

Directeur des poursuites criminelles

McCarthy Tétrault since 2017, she was

et pénales du Québec à titre de procureure.

previously a crown prosecutor in Alberta.

Sa pratique est dédiée aux causes longues

John Lennard, BCL/LLB’11, has joined Stikeman Elliott in Toronto as a partner in the Tax Group.

43

et complexes en matière criminelle et pénale.

ALUMNOTES Sophie Roy-Lafleur, BCL/LLB’11, s’est

Priyanka Timblo, BCL/LLB’13, is a part-

jointe à Latitude Management à titre de

ner at Holwell Shuster & Goldberg (HSG)

directrice, ressources professionnelles

in New York. She practiced at HSG from

et recrutement. Elle a précédemment

2017 to 2021, contributing to a number of

dirigé le Centre de développement pro-

the firm’s major litigation victories, and

fessionnel de la Faculté de droit pendant

returned to HSG in 2022 after a stint at

quatre ans (et elle nous manque gros !).

Omni Bridgeway in global legal finance

Don-Ray Simmonds, BCL/LLB’12,

and risk management. She was part of the

became a registered EU Trademark Agent. He lives in France and the United Kingdom.

HSG trial team that successfully represented Valassis, a MacAndrews & Forbes company, as plaintiff in a high-stakes antitrust jury trial against News Corp.

Gabrielle Tremblay, BCL/LLB’17, a été nommée conseillère juridique senior à la Banque Nationale. Me Tremblay est également conseillère juridique bénévole pour l’organisme Dis-Moi.

ANGELA SWAN, OC, LLD’21, was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in December 2021. A distinguished legal scholar, practitioner, teacher, mentor, and an acclaimed figure in Canadian contract law

Ma’n H. Zawati, DCL’19, has published

and the Canadian legal community

Reciprocity in Population Biobanks:

more broadly, she was awarded a

Relational Autonomy and the Duty to

Doctor of Law, honoris causa, by

Inform in the Genomica Era (Elsevier,

McGill University at one of the fall

2021). He is an assistant professor at

2021 convocation ceremonies.

McGill University’s Faculty of Medicine RÉGINAL LABONTÉ, BCL/JD’20,

and Health Sciences and the executive

s’est joint à Latitude Management,

director of the Centre of Genomics and

Policy. His work is interdisciplinary,

une entreprise spécialisée en

drawing together perspectives from law,

prévention et gestion du harcèle-

ethics, bioinformatics, genomics,

ment et de la violence en milieu de

and policy.

travail fondée par ANAÏS LACROIX, BCL/LLB’11.

2020’s Joshua Blatt, BCL/JD’21, sociétaire en

Éric St-Pierre, BCL/LLB’10, a reçu

droit des sociétés chez Osler, s’est hissé

le titre Avocat.e JBM de l’année 2021 du

au sommet du Tableau d’honneur de

Jeune Barreau de Montréal. Il dirige

l’excellence de l’École du Barreau en

la Fondation familiale Trottier, l’une des

obtenant les meilleurs résultats aux

plus importantes fondations en change-

examens pour l’année 2021.

ment climatique au Canada. Il a joué un rôle clé dans la création de la Ligue des communautés canadiennes sobres en carbone, et a établi le Fonds climat du Grand Montréal. Il a contribué au développement du Plan climat de la Ville de Montréal, qui vise la carboneutralité en 2050, et au Partenariat Climat Montréal.

NICOLE SPADOTTO, BCL/JD’21, won the Canadian Bar Association’s 2021 Bill Miller Memorial Award for her co-authored paper “Digital Advertising and Purchasing: Fun or a

Nikolas De Stefano, BCL/JD’20, joined Lenczner Slaght as associate in March.

He previously served as law clerk at the Supreme Court of Canada for Justice Rosalie Abella.

New Type of Deception.” The award

Larissa Parker, BCL/JD’21, won the silver

is bestowed annually for up to two

award in the 2021 Global Climate Law

of the best articles published in the

and Governance Student Essay Competi-

Canadian Competition Law Review.

tion for her essay “Latest Developments in Emission Trading.”

44

FOCU S LAW / 2 02 2 -2 02 3 / M C G IL L UN IVE RS ITY

The Chancellor Day Circle Named in honour of Charles Dewey Day, first chancellor of McGill University and, as one of the codifiers, a central figure in the civil law of Quebec, the Chancellor Day Circle was founded in 2017 to acknowledge the Faculty’s most significant donors. Admission to the Circle is bestowed on donors who have given $100,000 or more to the Faculty of Law. La Faculté de droit remercie les membres du Cercle Chancellor-Day pour leur soutien inestimable : A. Jean de Grandpré, CC

Fasken

Merle Wertheimer & Sam Hornstein

Alex Kam-Wah Woo

Fondation J A DeSève

Mitch Garber & Anne-Marie Boucher

The Amiel Foundation

Gregory J. David

Mitzi and Mel Dobrin Family

Anna Loparco

Hillel Rosen & Liane Feldman

Nahum Gelber, QC

Anne-France Goldwater

Ian Cuillerier

Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP

Anna Yang & Joseph Schull

Ian C. Pilarczyk

Osler Hoskin & Harcourt LLP

Ariel & Catherine Deckelbaum

IMK LLP/S.E.N.C.R.L.

Penny & Gordon Echenberg

Beaverbrook Canadian Foundation

Isabelle Marcoux

Peter D. Nesgos

Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

James A. Robb, QC, Ad.E.

Philippe Lette

The Blema & Arnold Steinberg Foundation

James A. Woods

Québecor inc

BMO Financial Group

The Hon. James C K-Hugessen, CM

Richard Aftanas

The Boeing Company

Jordan & Caren Waxman

Richard Bogoroch

Borden Ladner Gervais LLP

Kugler Kandestin LLP

Rio Tinto

Christopher Hoffmann & Joan Eakin

LGBT Purge Fund

Robert L. Katz & Christina H. Otto

Clive & Barbara Allen & Family

The Hon. L. Yves Fortier PC, CC, OQ, QC

Robert L. Raich & Marlene Raich

The Chawkers Foundation

Li Ka-Shing (Canada) Foundation

Robert Raizenne

Colin Stephen Baxter & Rachel Ralston Baxter

Roderick A. Macdonald & Shelley Freeman

David Johnston

Marcel J. Arsenault & Cynda Collins-Arsenault

David P. O’Brien, OC

Mark A. Godsy

Scott Henderson

David W. Binet

Marlene & Joel King

Sophie Nappert

Davies Ward Phillips and Vineberg LLP

Maryse D Bertrand, Ad. E. & M. William Brock, Ad. E.

Stephen Allan Scott

Donald E. Meehan Donner Canadian Foundation The Hon. E Leo Kolber, OC Éric St-Pierre

Masao Sekiguchi McCarthy Tétrault LLP The McConnell Foundation McMillan S.E.N.C.R.L., s.r.l./LLP

Roy L. Heenan, OC

Stephen Halperin & Andrea Morris Halperin Stikeman Elliott LLP Susan Wells Tunnell & David Tunnell William Friedman

Le don d’une vie Forgé par vous Forgé par McGill

Kathy Nakashima BSc’77, BCL/LLB’81 Legacy gift donor

“The scholarships I received were instrumental in helping me through McGill; I want to help future students who might not otherwise be able to attend. That’s why I’m leaving a legacy gift – a bequest in my will – to McGill.”

Quel sera votre héritage?

1430, rue Peel, Montréal (Québec) H3A 3T3, Canada mcgill.ca/pg 1.800.567.5175 514.398.3560 plannedgifts.dev@mcgill.ca

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