Louis Frank
Research Assistant
My name is Louis Frank, I’m a master’s student in geography at the University of Ottawa. My research interests are at the interface of environment and political economy, especially the changing relations between Indigenous peoples, the state and the private sector. My past and present academic work has focussed on global climate policy, science policy, and Arctic shipping and environmental change.
I am a settler with Ashkenazi Jewish, English and Swiss ancestors who migrated to Canada throughout the 20th century. Before moving to Ottawa (unceded Algonquin territory), I grew up in Toronto whose long, complex pre-colonial history includes the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Covenant. As a newcomer, learning about this governance arrangement has informed how I contextualize my place within and responsibilities to the land in which I grew up.
I am very proud to have this within the Rebuilding First Nations Governance project. I hope to continue learning knowledge and skills that will help me advocate for inherent rights and a more balanced, wholistic approach to environmental and economic policy.