The Honourable Iona Campagnolo, née Hardy, became the first woman Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia in 2001 where she served for six years and, in 1982, she was elected the first female President of the Liberal Party of Canada. In addition to her many roles both in national and international politics, Ms. Campagnolo has received seven honorary degrees in BC and Ontario, as well as a number of awards including being designated as a member of the Order of Canada in 1973 and an Officer of the Order of St. John. Two First Nations have also recognized her with honoured names from the T’Simpsean – Notz Whe Neha – (Mother of the Big Fin) and from the Haida Saan Naag XWhe – (Person who sits high).

The Campagnolo Lecture Series is an annual event held in recognition of Iona Campagnolo’s life-long commitment to justice for Indigenous Peoples, equity, and protection of the environment, as well as her frequent contributions as the Community Justice Centre’s “Ambassador for Restorative Justice.” The Campagnolo Lecture Series features a guest speaker who presents their insights and ideas about the role, function, and effects of enhancing the practice of Restorative Justice in modern society.

Past speakers include: Dr. Cindy Blackstock, Dr. Brenda Morrison, Hon. Jody Wilson-Raybould, Judge Barry Stuart, Brenda M. Lucki, Judge Ross Green, Dr. Murray Sinclair, Beverley McLaughlin, Terri-Lynn Williams Davidson, Svend Robinson, Judge John Reilly, Adrienne Clarkson, and Dr. John Ralston Saul. A preview of select lectures is below. To view all past lectures, visit the Community Justice Centre’s YouTube page.