Level Justice Receives Support from the Peter Gilgan Foundation to Strengthen Indigenous Youth Legal Education
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Toronto, ON – February 27, 2026 – Level Justice today announced support from the Peter Gilgan Foundation to strengthen community relationships within the Indigenous Youth Outreach Program, a national initiative that provides culturally grounded legal education to Indigenous youth aged 9 to 18 across Canada.
The investment will support dedicated staff time and resources to deepen relationships with Indigenous advisors, Elders, educators, and community partners. This work will help ensure each program delivery remains locally grounded, culturally safe, and responsive to the priorities of the communities involved.
“Strong relationships are central to the Indigenous Youth Outreach Program,” says Shelan Markus, Executive Director of Level Justice. “This support allows us to dedicate time to listening, building trust, and working alongside Indigenous advisors and community partners so that each program reflects local knowledge, priorities, and legal traditions.”
“The Peter Gilgan Foundation is honoured to support Indigenous initiatives as they lead in healing, resurgence, and building self-determined futures with Indigenous youth. Learning about Level’s demonstrated commitment of building strong, sustained relationships with Indigenous advisors, Elders, and communities is what really stood out. We’re proud to support their Indigenous Youth Outreach Program as they continue creating meaningful opportunities for young people to build confidence, explore pathways in law, and see themselves reflected in the justice system.” Hayley Gilgan, Peter Gilgan Foundation.
The Indigenous Youth Outreach Program brings hands-on legal education into classrooms and community spaces through mock trials, mentorship from legal professionals, field trips, and interactive workshops. Programming takes place in rural, urban, and remote communities across Canada.
This funding will prioritize strengthening continuity and partnership in communities where the program is delivered, enhancing facilitator training, and ensuring Indigenous perspectives remain central to curriculum development and program delivery.
By supporting this initiative, the Peter Gilgan Foundation is contributing to education and economic opportunities for Indigenous youth and helping advance a justice system that is more representative and responsive.
Learn more at: www.leveljustice.org
About Level Justice
Level Justice is a national justice education and human rights charity. Level works with communities across Canada to advance human rights and remove barriers to equity and justice. Through programs for youth, law students, and the legal sector, Level Justice inspires leadership, empathy, and inclusion.
Media Contact:
Shelan Markus
Executive Director
shelan@leveljustice.org
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