Trudeau Appoints Manon Jeannotte Of  Mi’kmaq The First Nation, Quebec’s New Lieutenant Governor

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed the appointment of Manon Jeannotte as the new Lieutenant Governor of Quebec. Hailing from the Nation Micmac de Gespeg, Ms. Jeannotte brings a wealth of experience and a fervent commitment to the well-being of Indigenous communities, marking a transformative chapter in the province’s leadership.

Manon Jeannotte’s journey has been defined by over two decades of dedicated service, primarily in policy, governance, and advocacy for Indigenous peoples. Her notable accomplishments include serving as the Director of First Nations Executive Education at the École des hautes études commerciales of Montréal (HEC Montréal), where she played a pivotal role in empowering Indigenous leaders and fostering socio-economic improvements within their communities. Her efforts to illuminate the rich history of First Nations and Inuit in Quebec garnered accolades from the Quebec Council of Senior Federal Officials.

Expressing gratitude for the outgoing Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable J. Michel Doyon, Prime Minister, Trudeau commended Ms. Jeannotte’s unwavering dedication to Indigenous well-being and anticipated her continued impact in her new role.

“Manon Jeannotte has dedicated her career to advancing Indigenous Peoples’ well-being and making a real difference in the life of our communities. I am confident she will continue to make significant contributions and inspire people in Quebec and across Canada in her new role,” said Prime Minister Trudeau.

Ms. Jeannotte’s distinguished career features a robust background in leadership, having served for 12 years in various capacities within her home community, the Nation Micmac de Gespeg, including roles as a councillor and Chief. A graduate of the McGill-HEC Montréal Executive Master of Business Administration program, she is also the recipient of its inaugural scholarship for Indigenous managers.

Her commitment extends beyond borders, as demonstrated by a fellowship from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. This enabled her to engage in crucial dialogue sessions on UNESCO’s initiatives supporting Indigenous Peoples. Her impactful contributions have not gone unnoticed, earning her recognition from the Quebec Council of Senior Federal Officials.

Residing in the Lanaudière region of Quebec with her partner, Ms. Jeannotte is set to serve a term of at least five years as the Lieutenant Governor. She will represent His Majesty The King in this role, fulfilling essential functions such as swearing in the provincial government’s Executive Council, opening legislative assembly sessions, and providing Royal Assent to provincial bills.

Beyond her constitutional duties, Ms. Jeannotte will take on ceremonial and community functions, including promoting a sense of identity, representing The King in the province, acting as the official host, supporting social causes, and recognizing outstanding citizens. Her appointment marks a historical moment for Indigenous leadership and signals a commitment to diversity and inclusivity in Quebec’s highest-ranking offices.