Condolences are flooding social media following the passing of Norma Kejick, a dedicated advocate for First Nations youth in northwestern Ontario. Kejick, a member of Lac Seul First Nation, passed away at the age of 59 in Sioux Lookout over the weekend. She devoted 35 years to the Northern Nishnawbe Education Council (NNEC) and rose to the position of executive director in 2015.
Kiiwetinoong NDP MPP Sol Mamakwa announced Kejick’s demise on behalf of her family, highlighting her selfless spirit, love for her family and work, and her relentless commitment to the community. Kejick collaborated closely with staff and students at various educational institutions, including the Wahsa Distance Education Centre, Dennis Franklin Cromarty (DFC) High School in Thunder Bay, and Pelican Falls First Nations High School in Sioux Lookout. She introduced the Yellow Ribbon Campaign to raise awareness about suicide prevention and championed youth mental health initiatives.
Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute expressed sorrow over Kejick’s loss, recognizing her enduring dedication to First Nations education and community leadership. Kejick played a crucial role in the Seven Youth Inquest, which examined the deaths of seven First Nations youth in Thunder Bay who had relocated for schooling between 2000 and 2011. She was instrumental in establishing the Wake the Giant movement aimed at enhancing safety for students from northern communities in Thunder Bay.
Nishnawbe Aski Nation praised Kejick’s exceptional contributions to Indigenous education in northern Ontario, honoring her posthumously with the Emile Nakogee Award for Outstanding Leadership. Kejick’s impactful leadership extended beyond education; she devoted over two decades to the Lac Seul Police, significantly shaping the organization and earning widespread respect for her commitment and compassion.
NAN Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler lauded Kejick for her multifaceted community leadership and unwavering dedication to the well-being of her people. Kejick’s profound connection to the land, reflected in her love for camping, fishing, and hunting, defined her grounded and purposeful leadership style. Her legacy of service and impact will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A viewing for Kejick is scheduled at the Sioux Lookout Funeral Home on August 31, while her funeral will be held at St. Mary’s Anglican Church in Sioux Lookout on September 1, with a reception to follow. Mental health support is available through the Hope for Wellness hotline for those in need.