Futures in Justice Victoria | April 11, 2025 | Victoria Courthouse
I was deeply honored and inspired to have been a small part of Braiding Diversity into Justice as a panelist at its inaugural event in Victoria, British Columbia. Held at the Victoria Courthouse, this full-day conference brought together racialized and marginalized young women and gender-diverse high school youth aged 16–18, along with professionals from across the justice sector. The goal was to build meaningful pathways into legal and public service careers so they could “see themsleves in the law”—and I’m proud to have played even a minor role in that important work.
The day began with a powerful welcome from Elder May Sam and opening remarks from Justice Renee Cochard, setting a respectful and hopeful tone for the future of law.
Throughout the day, I had the privilege of participating alongside an inspiring group of colleagues in:
🟣 Career Panels- Diversity of Opportunity
We shared our personal journeys into the justice system—from courtroom work to behind-the-scenes roles—and offered a candid look into the day-to-day realities of our professions.
I spoke about my untraditional journey through my legal career- starting when I decided, as a young single queer mom, to go to university when my son was 2. I followed with my path that has wound through working as a lawyer in government to create the family law in BC, private practice as a family and fertility lawyer, to lawyering in Nunavut, and to my current solo practice- Michelle Kinney Law, which focusses on fertility law, cooperative family law and law reform and education initiatives. See my About Me page.
🟢 Speed Mentoring Sessions
These were among the most meaningful moments of the day. I had the chance to connect one-on-one and in small groups with participants—offering real-time mentorship, answering thoughtful questions, and witnessing their passion for justice firsthand.
🔵 Inspiring Keynotes
Justice Veronica Jackson of the BC Supreme Court provided a morning keynote address that left the room feeling empowered, making a career in law feel more reachable through the lens of her own story.
Dr. Sarah Morales, an Indigenous legal scholar from the University of Victoria, shared a powerful address on Indigenous legal traditions and the importance of equity in the justice system. Her words resonated deeply and added a vital dimension to the day’s dialogue.
🟡 Lunch & Interactive Breaks
These informal moments fostered genuine community-building. It was a joy to witness the energy, curiosity, and leadership emerging in these young people.
The day closed with thoughtful remarks from representatives of the local School District, reinforcing our shared commitment to nurturing a justice system that reflects the diversity and brilliance of the communities it serves.
I left the courthouse inspired and full of hope—for the youth who showed up with courage and curiosity, and for the future we’re all braiding together.
The program started in Ontario in 2018 and is spreading. A stong thank you to Justice Renee Cochard and lawyer Renee Mulligan for bringing this important initiative to Victoria.
