Katherine Koostachin is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of comprehensive experience in Indigenous policy, legal matters, and advocacy, focusing on advancing Crown-Indigenous relationships. She has played a pivotal role in Indigenous policy development within the Prime Minister’s Office and several key federal ministries, including Indigenous Services, Natural Resources, and Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Katherine’s expertise spans complex legal and regulatory matters, including the Impact Assessment Act, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2021), and other legislation supporting Indigenous rights and self-determination.

During her time with the Prime Minister’s Office, Katherine played a key role in securing historic federal investments for Indigenous housing and infrastructure, directly benefiting Inuit and other Indigenous communities. She also helped establish additional support for Indigenous groups living in urban and rural areas, addressing critical gaps in housing accessibility. Furthermore, she worked through the Government of Canada’s Permanent Bilateral Mechanisms (PBMs) with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis leaders to co-develop policy and advance shared priorities. This included collaborating with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) and the four Inuit regions on unified advocacy efforts, notably contributing to the development of the Inuit Nunangat Policy that outlines an approach for the design and renewal of all federal policies, programs, services, and initiatives that apply in Inuit Nunangat and benefit Inuit. Furthermore, while at Environment and Climate Change Canada, Katherine also worked closely with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association on the Lancaster Sound project, which culminated in the signing of the Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement (IIBA) for the Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area.

As a Mushkegowuk Cree from Attawapiskat First Nation, Katherine deeply understands the challenges faced by remote northern communities. Her lived experience allows her to empathize with the advocacy efforts of Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples working to navigate the unique opportunities and barriers of remote regions. Katherine remains committed to fostering collaboration and advancing reconciliation efforts that respect Indigenous rights and knowledge.