Jim Antoine – Board of Director, Keepers of the Water

Jim Antoine is a distinguished Dene leader from the Northwest Territories, known for his lifelong commitment to Indigenous governance, environmental stewardship, and the protection of water. As a Board Member of Keepers of the Water, he brings decades of leadership experience and a deep understanding of the cultural and political significance of water to Indigenous communities.

Born in Fort Simpson in 1949, Jim has dedicated his life to serving his people. He pursued post-secondary education at the University of Wisconsin and the University of Lethbridge, earning a management certificate in 1988. His leadership journey began at the community level, where he served as Chief of the Liidlii Kue First Nation multiple times since the 1970s. He later entered territorial politics, serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly from 1991 to 2003 and as the eighth Premier of the Northwest Territories from 1998 to 2000.

Throughout his career, Jim has been a strong advocate for Indigenous rights, self-governance, and environmental protection. As Premier, he played a key role in the creation of Nunavut in 1999 and worked to strengthen relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments.

Jim’s deep respect for the land and water is rooted in Dene traditions. He believes water is sacred and essential to all life, carrying the spirit of connection and responsibility. As a Board Member of Keepers of the Water, he continues to advocate for the protection of water systems across the North, ensuring that Indigenous voices lead the conversation on environmental sustainability.

With a lifetime of experience in leadership and governance, Jim remains dedicated to safeguarding the lands and waters for future generations.