Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, O.B.C., is a hereditary chief of the Gwawaenuk First Nation. He upholds a life dedicated to bridging the differences brought about by intolerance, lack of understanding, and racism at home and abroad.

His insights into the destructive impacts these forces can have on peoples’ lives, families and cultures were shaped by his experience with the Canadian Indian Residential School system. As one of the last few speakers of the Kwakwaka’wakw language, Chief Joseph is an eloquent and inspiring Ceremonial House Speaker. He shares his knowledge and wisdom in the Big House and as a Language Instructor with the University of British Columbia, an internationally recognized art curator and as co-author of “Down from the Shimmering Sky: Masks of the Northwest Coast”.  

In 2003, Chief Robert Joseph received an Honorary Doctorate of Law Degree from the University of British Columbia for his distinguished achievements in serving BC and Canada.

Chief Joseph is currently the Ambassador for Reconciliation Canada and the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, Chairman of the National Assembly of First Nations Elder Council, and Special Advisor to both Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Indian Residential School Resolutions Canada.

Chief Robert Joseph was appointed as an Officer of Canada in 2017. He is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from Indspire and was appointed as an Officer to The Order of British Columbia. He is also the recipient of the 2016 Wallenberg-Sugihara Civil Courage Award.