Justine Correia is of settler ancestry from Vernon, BC (the traditional and unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan people). She now lives and works on the territories of the Lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ peoples.
While studying in the JD/JID program at UVic Law, Justine was the heart of the Great Land Grab research team. She led many projects as a research assistant, including building a series of briefing memos to guide the Hul’quimi’num Treaty Group team in negotiations. Throughout law school and today, Justine works as a social scientist with and for First Nations, both directly and in a consulting capacity.
What moment or memory stands out most from your time at UVic?
Our Field School in the Northwest Territories with Dene organizer and activist Daniel T’selie. It was amazing to learn from such incredible First Nation knowledge holders in the community, while under the careful guidance of a super kind and rad human.
Where did you spend most of your time studying, hanging out or unwinding on campus?
The campus and natural environment are so beautiful! I liked hanging out near the windows in the corners of the Diana M. Priestly Library. I also enjoyed eating snacks under the trees in the quad.
Which course or instructor had a positive impact on your academic or personal growth?
Dr. Estair Van Wagner’s municipal law class. The course focused on understanding the issues of housing and homelessness through the lens of municipal and property law. The course was grounded in the real circumstances and issues facing community members every day. It helped deepen my understanding of the housing crisis and the responsibilities carried by those working in law.
What activity or experience outside the classroom meant the most to you?
The friendships I made throughout law school that extended far beyond the walls of the Fraser Building. These relationships and the moments I shared with my friends meant the most to me.
What are your plans for after graduation, and is it the path you envisioned for yourself growing up?
As a mature student, balancing law school and work was A LOT. As a graduate, I’m focused on finding joy and calm throughout diverse areas of my life. I’m continuing to support Professors Morales and Van Wagner with their work with the Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group as a project assistant. I also work as a senior researcher with Reciprocity Research Inc. I support Indigenous communities in stewardship projects.
What’s one lesson or mindset from your time at UVic that you’ll carry with you into the next chapter of your life?
When our JD/JID cohort gathered for the first time four years ago, the late LEXIXELEK, Dr. Baptiste “Skip” Dick welcomed us. He reminded us the longest journey was from our heads to our hearts. That small but significant moment stuck with me throughout law school. I will carry that wisdom into my next chapter as well.
What would you tell someone who is considering choosing UVic for their degree?
Do it! UVic Law offers a supportive learning environment, with students and faculty who are genuine people. It’s a place that finds and creates space for kindness, while also facilitating critical and analytical learning.
What are you going to miss most about UVic Law?
As a student in the JD/JID program, I was fortunate enough to engage with both Indigenous legal orders and Canadian law throughout my degree. I was encouraged to think critically about the law and through diverse legal traditions. I will miss carrying out this work as part of a collaborative and respectful cohort.
