NEWS RELEASE
LEGAL CLINIC OF GUELPH AND WELLINGTON COUNTY
**********************
The Legal Clinic of Guelph and Wellington County is now providing free commissioning services for Indigenous community members looking to reclaim a traditional name, or use a single name as part of their cultural traditions.
Due to colonial injustices, the Indian Act, residential schools, the 60s scoop and other government practises, many Indigenous community members have had their traditional names taken away. As part of our commitment to reconciliation, we provide assistance with navigating the name change process, assistance reviewing applications and fee waiver forms, as well as providing free commissioning.
This name change service is supported by Ahwenehaode, Indigenous Justice Program. Founded in December 2016, Ahwenehaode was created to:
- Improve access to justice for First Nation, Metis and Inuit people by collaborating with Indigenous social agencies and networks to build relationships and trust
- Provide culturally respectful and appropriate clinic law services and an accessible means of support, intervention and assistance
- Foster and improve coordination and integration with other legal aid services and across all elements of the justice sector
Ahwenehaode serves Guelph and Wellington County through the Legal Clinic of Guelph and Wellington County, the Region of Waterloo through Waterloo Region Community Legal Services, and the City of Mississauga through Mississauga Community Legal Services.
Community members looking to access these supports can contact our Clinic by phone, 519- 821-2100, or email [email protected].
For up-to-date information on where to find us in the community, visit our website, www.gwlegalclinic.ca, or follow us on social media @GWLegalClinic.
**********************
