Sonny Cochrane appointed to the National Council for Reconciliation
Cochrane Sinclair is proud to share that our managing partner, Sonny Cochrane, has been appointed to the National Council for Reconciliation. This council plays a crucial role in ensuring accountability, transparency, and sustained progress on Canada’s commitments to Indigenous Peoples.
Sonny’s appointment reflects not just his decades of legal experience, but also his unwavering advocacy for Indigenous self-determination, community empowerment, and culturally grounded systems of justice. His leadership is rooted in listening before leading, and in building trust between legal systems, governments, and the people most impacted by them.
As one of the founding partners of Cochrane Sinclair LLP, Sonny has long worked at the intersection of law and reconciliation. From representing First Nations in historic legal actions to supporting policy reform, his contributions have always reflected a vision larger than the courtroom. He is guided by a belief that law must serve community, not the other way around.
The National Council for Reconciliation is tasked with monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on the progress of Canada’s reconciliation efforts, including the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. It is an independent, non-political body that must speak truthfully and critically about where progress has been made and where it has not. Sonny’s voice on this council adds not only legal acumen but also a deep understanding of the cultural, historical, and lived realities of Indigenous communities across Canada.
His appointment affirms the importance of placing Indigenous legal professionals in positions of influence. It is through this kind of leadership that understands both systems of law and the needs of community and that reconciliation can move from concept to action.
We know that reconciliation is not a statement. It is a sustained commitment to meaningful partnership, truth-telling, and equitable decision-making. We are proud to see Sonny carry that work forward on a national scale, and we remain committed to supporting the broader goals of justice and Indigenous sovereignty in every aspect of our firm’s work.
We extend our congratulations to all those appointed to the Council and express our deep appreciation to the communities, Elders, and leaders who continue to shape the path forward.