Dorene Bernard is a prominent Mi'kmaq activist who has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights and well-being of Indigenous communities. With over 20 years of experience in Native Child Welfare and Community Support, Bernard has developed a deep understanding of the complex issues facing Indigenous families and communities.
Throughout her career, Bernard has been particularly focused on supporting survivors and families of the Shubenacadie Indian Residential School, a traumatic and devastating chapter in Canadian history. Her work has also centered on documenting and preserving the history of Indian Residential Schools, as well as coordinating the Indian Residential School Commemoration Project.
In addition to her work in the field of Native Child Welfare, Bernard is also a respected water protector, deeply committed to the preservation of Indigenous waters and the protection of the natural world. As a member of the Grassroots Grandmothers, Bernard coordinates the Grassroots Grandmother Circle, a social justice initiative that addresses a range of critical issues affecting Indigenous communities, including child welfare, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, cultural education, and water teachings.
Through her tireless advocacy and community engagement, Bernard has become a respected leader in the Indigenous rights movement, known for her compassion, her dedication, and her unwavering commitment to creating positive change.
