John Borrows and David Walders have received TRC Teaching Awards from the Students’ Law Society (SLS) and the Indigenous Law Students’ Association (ILSA).
The awards recognize faculty who have made an outstanding contribution to the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada’s call to action #28 by teaching course content involving Indigenous perspectives, topics, and law, as well as Canadian Aboriginal Law. Borrows was named the full-time faculty recipient; Walders the adjunct faculty recipient.
Borrows, the inaugural Loveland Chair in Indigenous Law, is a member of the Chippewa of the Nawash First Nation in Ontario. In 2023, Borrows began teaching a new course to all first-year U of T Law students that addresses the intersection of Indigenous Peoples’ laws with Canada's laws. Over the past decade, Borrows has also taught an intensive course in Anishinaabe law and legal tradition, often bringing students to his Peoples’ reserve, Neyaashiinigmiing, three hours north of Toronto. There, students and faculty meet Elders, Chiefs, colleagues and teachers and experience Indigenous law in context.
In addition to providing invaluable insights into the complexities of Indigenous and Canadian legal systems through these courses, Borrows’ dedication to fostering a deep and reflective understanding, along with his unwavering support for students, highlight his exceptional commitment to education and reconciliation.
Walders is Anishinaabe and his family is from Alderville First Nation. He completed his bachelor’s degree at Trinity College in U of T and his JD and master’s at U of T Law. He is a lawyer, consultant, and advisor who has worked with Indigenous communities in Canada in various capacities, including project financing, business structuring, and support for Indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship. He also advises non-Indigenous clients on various matters, including reconciliation action plans and Indigenous engagement strategies. In addition to co-teaching a seminar in Aboriginal Law and Policy, Walders was recognized for having made has made a significant impact through his role in the Kawaskimhon Aboriginal Law Moot, a consensus-based, non-adversarial moot that incorporates Indigenous legal traditions alongside federal, provincial and international law.
Walders' knowledge of the law and engaging and supportive teaching style have profoundly enhanced student learning experiences. His commitment to student success and his ability to create a warm and inclusive environment exemplify his exceptional qualities as an educator and mentor.
