Ashley Wehrhahn is Nehiyaw/Plains Cree from Sweetgrass First Nation, which is just outside where she grew up in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, in Treaty 6 and homeland of the Métis. Ashley completed the four-year JD/JID joint Indigenous Law Program at UVic Law with a concentration in environmental law and sustainability.
What moment stands out most from your time here?
It’s not a moment, but the relationships I made throughout the years stand out to me. UVic Law has been an inclusive place because of the students, professors and staff who create the amazing community here. I want to especially mention the entire team at the Indigenous Law Research Unit: Deborah Curran and the Environmental Law Centre, Val Napoleon, Sarah Morales, Alan Hanna, Jeffrey Hewitt, Chris Tollefson, Anthony Ho and Kent McNeil.
Where did you love to study, hang out or unwind on campus?
The First Peoples House. In my first year especially, I went to many Noon Networking sessions on Wednesdays to hear what was going on and share in the amazing food. I also enjoyed attending events in the ceremonial hall, studying, and grabbing a quick snack in the lunchroom. The First Peoples House always felt like a safe space for me and a place I could go.
Was there a course or professor who had an impact on you? Any special memories to share?
Deborah Curran taught me two courses, LAW 392 Water Law, and later LAW 353 Environmental Law Clinic. She shares her knowledge and experience in class in a way that is impactful and enjoyable. I gained practical skills and tools in these courses. They taught me how different legal systems work. I also learned to explore and be creative with legal solutions. She inspired me to work on my concentration in environmental sustainability.
What activity or experience outside the classroom meant the most to you?
Being involved in the Indigenous Law Students Association (ILSA), including as the co-chair these past two years, was a highlight of my time within the law school community. When I first started law school, it was ILSA that made me feel included at UVic. Watching ILSA grow over the years has been meaningful to me. I value the role I had in helping facilitate and lead our meetings, events, funding and community involvement.
Is your current path what you envisioned for yourself growing up?
My current path is beyond what I could have envisioned for myself. UVic Law and the JD/JID program provided me with opportunities I would not have received elsewhere. After graduation, I will be taking a few months off to be with my family and attend ceremony on my First Nation. Then I will be doing articling first with the Environmental Law Centre (ELC) at UVic Law and then JFK Law LLP in Vancouver.
How would you describe your time at UVic in one word?
Meaningful.
