Native Women's Association of Canada former CEO dies aged 61

Lynne Groulx, the former chief executive officer of the Native Women's Association of Canada, has died.

She died suddenly on July 16 in her hometown of Cochrane in northern Ontario, an official obituary says. She was 61 years old.

"Lynne leaves behind a lasting legacy of selfless advocacy. She was a proud member of the Métis Nation of Ontario," says the obituary, describing Groulx as a devoted mother, daughter, sister and friend.

"Throughout her life, she championed the rights of women, Indigenous Peoples, and marginalized communities. She will be remembered as a fierce advocate for justice, a tireless community leader, and a compassionate presence in the lives of many."

Groulx became a prominent figure during her time at NWAC, a national advocacy organization for Indigenous women founded in 1974. She joined as executive director in 2016 and was named one of Canada's most powerful women by the Women's Executive Network in 2018.

Groulx previously worked at the Canadian Human Rights Commission. Under her leadership, NWAC undertook a number of high-profile ventures that generated publicity and, later, some debate. 

These initiatives included investing in real estate and leading the purchase and multimillion-dollar renovation of an NWAC head office in Gatineau, Que., which included an artisanal boutique, café and art gallery. 

She also helped the organization establish two resiliency lodges, which were intended to provide traditional healing services and programming for Indigenous women, in Chelsea, Que., and Gagetown, N.B., respectively.

Groulx's tenure ended in April 2024, amid internal turmoil.

Critics accused NWAC of straying from its non-profit mandate with its new ventures, but supporters said the business endeavours were meant to generate own-source revenue to reinvest into programming.

"I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together and am confident in NWAC's future," Groulx said in a statement at the time.

A spokesperson who provided the obituary said the family would appreciate their privacy at this time.