Peter Baird has played an extraordinary role in advancing the relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, bringing British Columbians together in many different ways.

Mr. Baird was at the forefront of treaty negotiations in British Columbia as an integral member of the federal team that negotiated the Nisga’a and Tsawwassen treaties. He has promoted respect for Aboriginal aspirations and achievements through youth development programs, education initiatives, arts exchanges and festivals.

He has also promoted organ transplant campaigns for children, assisted youth participation at a Haida Gwaii wilderness program, was a founding Director of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, an early proponent of the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation and a long-time supporter and contributor to the National Aboriginal Achievement Awards.

Mr. Baird also helped guide the development of Canada’s leading Aboriginal financial institution.

He has shown skill and understanding internationally – spearheading projects involving Canada and Russia, Austria, Japan, Mexico, Brazil and many other countries. He is equally lauded here at home for his compassion in helping British Columbia’s young Aboriginal people overcome prejudice and aspire to great goals.

Mr. Baird championed aboriginal representation at the 2006 Winter Olympics and the Squamish First Nation’s involvement with the 2010 Games here at home.

Peter Baird is a recipient of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal, the Federal Head of Public Service Award and the Russian State Committee Medal for the promotion of Youth Tourism.