Matthew Coon Come

Matthew Coon Come (born April 13, 1956) is a Canadian politician and activist of Cree descent. He was National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations from 2000 to 2003.

Born near Mistissini, Quebec, Coon Come was first educated at LaTuque Indian Residential School, in LaTuque, Quebec, part of the residential school system. He later studied political science at Trent University, and law at McGill University.

Coon Come was first elected as grand chief and chairman of Quebec's Grand Council of the Crees in 1987. He became known internationally for his efforts to defend the fundamental rights of First Nations peoples, notably in the campaign against the Quebec government's James Bay hydroelectric project.

Awards and honours

Coon Come was awarded with a National Aboriginal Achievement Award, now the Indspire Awards, in 1995. He has also received 2 honorary degrees, including:

Honorary degrees Country Date School Degree 1998 Trent University Doctor of Laws (LL.D) 2000 University of Toronto Doctor of Laws (LL.D)