@Okwarikowa Karihwakeron is a strong proponent of Indigenous language revitalization, and is a proud graduate of the Onkwawén:na Kentióhkwa Kanienkéha/Mohawk language immersion program. Karihwakeron has held many roles, including: Policy Director of the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres, Education Director and Director of Languages for the Assembly of First Nations, President and CAO of First Nations Technical Institute; one of his current roles includes being a Research Fellow with Yellowhead Institute. Karihwakeron was named as one of twelve defenders of human rights in the “Speak Truth to Power” initiative.