Joanne Rogers first woman elected chief of Aamjiwnaang First Nation

Voters at Aamjiwnaang First Nation made history Friday by electing their first female chief.

Joanne Rogers was elected to a two-year term, with 431 of the 593 votes cast for chief of the band council for the First Nation neighbouring Sarnia.

“I’m excited,” she said.

“It’s a new journey for me.”

Rogers, who is a life-long resident of Aamjiwnaang, retired in 2014 after serving 21 years as a Justice of the Peace.

Prior to that, the SCITS graduate had served on council and also held positions with the band, including clerk, stenographer and receptionist.

Over the years, Rogers has attended courses at Lambton College and Queen’s University.

“I’ve always been involved in the community, and sat on numerous committees,” she said.

“I’ve always, always cared about my community.”

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