Honour and pay tribute to Inuit leader Nellie Cournoyea - long-time legislator and Indigenous rights activist - with this booklet of 6 Permanent™ domestic rate stamps.

About the issue

This stamp is part of the second issue in the Indigenous Leaders series, which pays tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions to Canadian society and brought about positive and lasting changes in Canada. By highlighting the achievements of these modern-day First Nations, Inuit, and Métis leaders, the series celebrates their dedication to preserving their culture and improving the quality of life for Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

About Nellie Cournoyea

Inuit leader Nellie Cournoyea is an Indigenous rights activist and former long-time legislator from the Inuvialuit region of Canada’s western Arctic. Born on March 4, 1940, in Aklavik, Northwest Territories, she made history in 1991 as the first Indigenous woman to lead a provincial or territorial government in Canada after being selected as Premier of the Northwest Territories. Champion of her people, she has been tirelessly committed to Indigenous self-determination and to raising awareness of and addressing the many challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

Cournoyea has held influential roles in a number of organizations, including the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and the Committee for Original Peoples' Entitlement. In 2008, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada, received the Governor General's Northern Medal, and was inducted into the Aboriginal Business Hall of Fame. She has received six honorary doctorates in law and, in 2013, was further honoured with the Order of the Northwest Territories.

Nellie Cournoyea's legacy as a trailblazing leader and advocate for Indigenous rights continues to inspire, leaving an enduring impact on Canadian history and the pursuit of Indigenous self-determination.

About the design

The stamp's design features a photograph of Nellie Cournoyea, taken in 2022 by Peggy Jay. The photograph serves as a powerful representation of her leadership and the impact she has made throughout her lifetime.

Product # 414225111

Indigenous Leaders - Nellie Cournoyea: Permanent™ domestic rate stamps – booklet of 6