Dr. Lynn Gehl

Keynote Speaker | Peterborough, Ontario

Indigenous Knowledge Keeper
Treaty Rights | Land Claims | Access & Inclusivity Expert

Dr. Lynn Gehl Expertise Indigenous, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Cultural Diversity, Resilience & Change, Women's Leadership, Disability, Reconciliation, Indigenous Rights, , , and .

Dr. Lynn Gehl

About Dr. Lynn Gehl

Dr. Lynn Gehl is an author, advocate, artist, and public speaker. She is one of only two Algonquin in the world with a doctorate in Indigenous Studies. Her work encompasses both anti-colonial work and the celebration of Indigenous knowledge. She challenges Canada’s practices, policies, and laws of colonial genocide such as the Algonquin land claim; and in 2017 she was successful in Gehl v Canada regarding the matter of unknown and unstated paternity in the Indian Act. Lynn is fascinated with Indigenous knowledge, in particular ancient modalities of symbolic literacy and she continues to learn about them.

Dr. Lynn Gehl Videos

Dr. Lynn Gehl | Keynote Speaker | Speakers Bureau of Canada

Dr. Lynn Gehl | Indigenous Speaker | Speakers Bureau of Canada

Dr. Lynn Gehl | Treaty Rights | Speakers Bureau of Canada

Dr. Lynn Gehl | Access & Inclusivity Expert | Speakers Bureau of Canad

Interview with Indigenous Artist Lynn Gehl: Indigital Insights: Seas

Dr. Lynn Gehl Reconcili-action: Learning Truths and Enacting Responsib

Dr. Lynn Gehl Interviews & Podcasts

A Woman's Fight Against the Indian Act | the Agenda

Doctrine of Discovery: Stolen Lands, Strong Hearts

Sex Discrimination, Algonquin Genocide, and Indigenous Women & Girls W

DR. LYNN GEHL BIOGRAPHY

Dr. Lynn Gehl is an advocate, academic, author, artist and holds a Doctorate of Philosophy degree in Indigenous Studies, a Master’s degree in Canadian Studies and Indigenous Studies, and an undergraduate degree in Cultural Anthropology. She also has a diploma in Chemical Technology. Her Master’s and doctoral work were supported through Ontario Graduate Scholarships, and a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council scholarship, and her undergraduate degree was awarded with Summa Cum Laude distinction. Her doctoral work provided a first ever insider Indigenous analysis of the land claims process in Canada through a distinct Anishinaabeg methodology, “debwewin miikan-zhidchigewin”, that she articulated through relationships with Indigenous knowledge holders and published in an international journal.

Relying on an Algonquin Indigenist knowledge framework Lynn’s interests consist of both anti-colonial and Indigenous knowledge, with a focus on serving the most oppressed and also her nation affiliation, the Algonquin Anishinaabeg. She tackles sex discrimination, Canada’s land claims process, genocide, Indigenous women/girls with disabilities, and allyship. In terms of Indigenous knowledge, she offers models that open thought spaces, and she is fascinated with ancient forms of symbolic literacy such as wampum diplomacy and reading the land/waterscape of Akikpautik. Within this context she relies on her artistic and creative skills producing entities such as wampum belts and petroforms; and appreciating the role that concepts have as agents of change, she has birthed important concepts such as ‘The Indigenous Famous Five’, ‘6(1)a All the Way!’, ‘Follow the Turtle’, and the ‘Political Model of Disability’.

Dr. Lynn Gehl is the author of several publications: academic journal articles, peer reviewed books, United Nations submissions, and community based online news articles. Her book titles consist of: The Truth that Wampum Tells, Claiming Anishinaabe, and Gehl v Canada. Some of her community publication titles consist of: The Ally Bill of Responsibilities, That White Woman’s Gaze, and I am Only a Woman. The Gehl Report, and her 2024 United Nations submission, titled Time for a Change: Introducing the Political Model of Disability, are also important publications. Lynn and her work have been featured in a 2022 TVOntario segment and documentaries such as The Pretendians, and the Doctrine of Discovery: Stolen Lands Strong Hearts, and several APTN Investigates episodes.

Dr. Lynn Gehl has appeared as an expert before both the House of Commons and Senate parliamentary committees, and she was a successful plaintiff in 2017 at the Ontario Court of Appeal in Gehl v Canada regarding the matter of unknown and unstated paternity and the Indian Act. Her intellectual work was/is a component of the successful 2019 McIvor v Canada United Nations decision, the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls National Inquiry report, and the Missing Children and Unmarked Graves and Burial Sites associated with Indian Residential Schools final report. In 2023 she was the recipient of the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case. Dr. Lynn Gehl is a public speaker and delivers teachings and lectures to schools, universities, organizations, and various industries.

Dr. Lynn Gehl Topic Presentations

Dr. Lynn Gehl Peterborough, Ontario, Canada delivers keynote presentations, workshops, fireside chats, moderated Q&A, and other presentation formats on a wide variety of topics. Each presentation is unique, customized and tailored for audiences, industries, conferences and event formats.

Algonquin Anishinnaabeg of the Ottawa River Valley: an Introduction.

Debwewin Journey: Understanding the Intelligence of the Heart

Indigenous Knowledge Vs Western Knowledge

Gehl V Canada: Unknown and Unstated Paternity and the Indian Act

Introduction to the Treaty and Land Claims Process

Allyship and Reconciliation

Intersectionality and Indigenous Women and Girls with Disabilities

Creator's First Sacred Pipe (also Known as Akikpautik / Pipe Bowl Falls / Chaudière Falls)

Dr. Lynn Gehl Books & Articles

Gehl V Canada: Challenging Sex Discrimination in the Indian Act
Gehl V Canada: Challenging Sex Discrimination in

A follow-up to Claiming Anishinaabe, Gehl v Canada is the story of Lynn Gehl’s lifelong journey of survival against the nation-state’s...

Claiming Anishinaabe: Decolonizing the Human Spirit (2017)
Claiming Anishinaabe: Decolonizing the Human

Denied her Indigenous status, Lynn Gehl has been fighting her entire life to reclaim mino-pimadiziwin--the good life. Exploring...

The Truth That Wampum Tells: My Debwewin on the Algonquin Land Claims Process (2014)
The Truth That Wampum Tells: My Debwewin on the

In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Treaty at Niagara, The Truth that Wampum Tells offers readers a first-ever insider...

Anishinaabeg Stories: Featuring Petroglyphs, Petrographs, and Wampum Belts
Anishinaabeg Stories: Featuring Petroglyphs,

This code cracking book is written for people who wish to become culturally literate in the Anishinaabe worldview. This book is suitable...

Idle No More: Women Leading Action for Indigenous Rights in Canada
Idle No More: Women Leading Action for Indigenous

Idle No More (INM) is a Canadian resistance and protest indigenous people’s movement that kicked off last year. AWID spoke with Dr. Lynn...

Dr Gehl Wins Appeal in Indian Act Sex Discrimination Case
Dr Gehl Wins Appeal in Indian Act Sex

Gehl v Canada (Attorney General) is the latest in a long string of challenges to sex discrimination in the provisions of the Indian Act...

Dare to Rethink Your Preconceptions of Indigenous People, Says Author
Dare to Rethink Your Preconceptions of Indigenous

Lynn Gehl’s latest book, Claiming Anishinaabe: Decolonizing the Human Spirit, invites readers on a conceptual journey to rethink...

Lynn Gehl, of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation, Honoured by Governor General
Lynn Gehl, of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation,

A member of the Pikwàkanagàn First Nation is being honoured by Canada’s Governor General. But true to her fighting spirit, Lynn Gehl...

Dr. Lynn Gehl Speaking Testimonials

"Dr. Lynn Gehl delivered a powerful and enlightening presentation on the intersectionality of Indigenous women, disabilities, and colonization. Her “real talk” illuminated often overlooked truths, highlighting the disproportionate challenges faced by Indigenous women with disabilities and introducing her political model of disability. Dr. Gehl’s sustained efforts to educate, advocate, and fight for justice are vital to advancing reconciliation and equality. Thank you for your meaningful contribution; your insights have given us much to reflect on as we continue our reconciliation journey toward deeper understanding and inclusion."

Nicole McNeill

Director, Mainframe Engineering Chapter, Canadian IT
Sun Life

"What a humbling honour and privilege to be able to read Dr. Lynn Gehl’s profound and wise contribution and take her direction regarding the vital action required of all who are committed to promoting equality and justice."

Kim Pate

Senator

"Congratulations are due to Dr. Lynn Gehl for her successful challenge of the Indian Registrar’s refusal to allow her to be registered under the Indian Act. The refusal was based on the fact that because Lynn could not prove who her paternal grandfather was or that he was entitled to be registered, she could not be registered. The Court of Appeal for Ontario found that requiring her to prove the unprovable (the name of her ancestor) was unreasonable and that there was circumstantial evidence showing that he was ‘likely’ an Indian and a member of the community. She proved all she reasonably could, so the Registrar’s demand for more was unfair. The court ruled in her favour. Good win!"

Murray Sinclair

The Honourable

"I thoroughly appreciated the opportunity to hear Lynn Gehl speak about the strength and validity of Indigenous knowledge systems in December, particularly her Algonquin ways of knowing and being. Many of her words resonated with me and came at a time when I needed reminding of what our priorities need to be. I found it thought-provoking, refreshing and inspiring all at the same time. She is someone who I would enjoy listening to anytime. Chi miigwetch for hosting and for dedicating time to help the region deepen our understanding."

Jody Kohoko

Ottawa Carleton District School Board

"Having the opportunity to hear Dr. Gehl speak about the rich history and contemporary perspectives of the Algonquin has further opened my eyes to the deep learning that we all have a responsibility to. Her approach is engaging; feedback from educators was unanimously positive. Her talk and Q&A enriched our understanding for what and how to centre Algonquin voices in K-12 education. Dr. Gehl’s work is very important in learning the truths that must precede, and be the foundation of, reconciliation. She offers very important accounts, understandings, ideas, and perspectives that can inform us all. We look forward to continuing to learn from Dr Gehl."

Kyl Morrison

Indigenous Education Instructional Coach K-12
unceded, unsurrendered Algonquin Territory

"We were so, so grateful to have you join us. You are a gifted speaker. I hope your travel home went well and I look forward to meeting again!"

Lindsey Kirby-McGregor

Program Manager Indigenous Relations - Indigenous Relations Branch
City of Ottawa

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dr. Lynn Gehl known for and what is their expertise as a keynote speaker in Canada?

Dr. Lynn Gehl is known for defined subject matter expertise based on professional experience and industry background. As a keynote speaker in Canada for conferences and conventions, their presentations align with organizational objectives and audience outcomes. Corporate keynote speakers in Canada are selected based on credibility, relevance, and practical application. Expertise alignment supports informed booking decisions. Read More

What topics does Dr. Lynn Gehl speak on for conferences, conventions, corporate events, and annual general meetings in Canada?

Dr. Lynn Gehl delivers keynote presentations on defined topic areas confirmed during booking. Canadian business speakers for corporate meetings in Canada align topic selection with event objectives and audience priorities. Conference speakers in Canada adapt messaging for conventions, trade shows, and summits. Topics are finalized prior to written confirmation. Read More

How do I know if Dr. Lynn Gehl is the right fit for my audience, conference, convention, or AGM?

Dr. Lynn Gehl is evaluated based on audience alignment, event objectives, and subject matter relevance. Event planners booking keynote speakers in Canada for corporate conferences review experience, delivery style, and industry context. Canadian business speakers for annual general meetings must align with program goals and audience expectations. Fit is clarified during the pre decision call. Read More

Where is Dr. Lynn Gehl from and where do they speak across Canada?

Dr. Lynn Gehl is from Peterborough, Ontario and is available for events across Canada. Conference speakers in Canada frequently travel nationally with defined travel terms. Corporate keynote speakers coordinate scheduling through structured agreements. Availability is confirmed through formal inquiry. Read More

Is Dr. Lynn Gehl available as a virtual keynote speaker for online conferences, webinars, or hybrid events in Canada?

Dr. Lynn Gehl is available as a virtual keynote speaker for online conferences, corporate webinars, and hybrid events in Canada. Virtual keynote speakers in Canada deliver structured presentations adapted for remote audiences. Format, platform coordination, and timing are confirmed during booking. Virtual availability is documented through written agreement in Canada. Read More

Does Dr. Lynn Gehl deliver keynote presentations, workshops, training sessions, breakout sessions, fireside chats, or panel discussions?

Dr. Lynn Gehl may deliver keynote presentations as well as workshops and breakout sessions. Canadian business speakers for corporate training in Canada define session length and format during booking. Conference speakers may also participate in fireside chats or panel discussions depending on program design. Session formats are confirmed in writing. Read More

How do I contact Dr. Lynn Gehl to check availability and begin the booking process in Canada?

Dr. Lynn Gehl is contacted through Speakers Bureau of Canada to confirm availability and event details. Event planners and meeting planners typically schedule a pre decision call to clarify format, objectives, and scope. Booking begins once event requirements are defined. Written confirmation follows agreement execution. Read More

How do I book Dr. Lynn Gehl for a conference, convention, trade show, summit, or corporate meeting in Canada?

Dr. Lynn Gehl is booked through a structured agreement process confirming availability, fee structure, and logistics. Booking keynote speakers in Canada for conventions and trade shows includes written contracts and defined payment terms. Canadian business speakers for annual general meetings require scope confirmation before date holds convert to confirmed status. Booking is finalized upon agreement execution. Read More

How much does it cost to book Dr. Lynn Gehl as a keynote speaker in Canada?

Dr. Lynn Gehl keynote speaker fees depend on event type, audience size, format, and location. The cost to book a keynote speaker in Canada varies based on preparation scope and delivery structure. Corporate keynote speakers in Canada confirm fees through a booking agent and written agreement. Final pricing reflects defined scope and contract terms. Read More

Are there additional costs to hire Dr. Lynn Gehl for a corporate event, convention, or trade show in Canada?

Additional costs to hire Dr. Lynn Gehl may include travel expenses, extended sessions, workshops, meet and greets, emcee duties, or event host roles. Keynote speakers in Canada for business conventions often separate honorarium from travel and related logistics. Canadian business speakers confirm these components in writing before agreement execution. All additional costs are outlined contractually. Read More

How far in advance should I book Dr. Lynn Gehl for a conference, convention, or business meeting in Canada?

Dr. Lynn Gehl should be booked once event dates, location, and format are confirmed. Conference speakers in Canada often secure dates several months in advance. Corporate keynote speakers for annual general meetings may have limited availability during peak seasons. Early inquiry improves confirmation certainty. Read More

Is Dr. Lynn Gehl represented by an agent in Canada and how is the agreement handled?

Dr. Lynn Gehl is represented by Speakers Bureau of Canada for booking coordination and agreement management. Keynote speakers in Canada often work through an agency to formalize contracts and payment handling. Agent representation ensures structured communication between organizers and the speaker. Representation clarifies agreement terms before confirmation. Read More