Be the Change

Be the change you want to see in your community, be fearless and lead by example.

Marlys Edwardh: One Canadian Lawyer, Systemic Justice (1950-2026)

In a world where systemic change often feels impossibly slow, Marlys Edwardh proves that one determined person with a clear vision can reshape entire institutions. A pioneering Canadian litigation and civil rights lawyer, Edwardh (born 1950) became one of the first women to practice criminal law in Canada after her call to the bar in 1976. Her career stands as a powerful reminder: justice isn’t just about laws on the books — it’s about fearless advocates willing to challenge them. ulethbridge.ca

Trailblazing Impact

Edwardh co-founded the firm Ruby & Edwardh and later led her own practice, focusing on high-stakes constitutional and human rights cases. Her work repeatedly overturned wrongful convictions and strengthened protections for the vulnerable:

• She played key roles in exonerating Donald Marshall Jr., Guy Paul Morin, and Steven Truscott — landmark cases that exposed flaws in Canada’s justice system and set precedents for reviewing miscarriages of justice. en.wikipedia.org
• She represented Maher Arar in the inquiry into his extraordinary rendition and torture, highlighting national security overreach.
• Edwardh advocated for mental health rights in the criminal justice system (e.g., R. v. Swain), freedom of the press, LGBTQ+ protections, and opposition to problematic human trafficking legislation. osgoodesociety.ca

Her contributions extended to public inquiries like the Krever Commission on Canada’s blood system and arguments before the Supreme Court that advanced constitutional principles still in use today. Honored as a Member of the Order of Canada and with multiple honorary doctorates, she retired in 2018 after decades of influence. ulethbridge.ca

The Power of One Idea

Edwardh’s story embodies the blog-worthy truth you highlighted: sometimes systemic changes just take one person, one idea. She didn’t wait for perfect conditions or broad consensus. By taking on tough, unpopular cases — often involving the wrongfully accused, the mentally ill, or those caught in security certificate controversies — she forced the system to confront its failures and evolve. Her persistence helped shift Canadian law toward greater fairness, accountability, and civil liberties.

In an era of cynicism about institutions, Edwardh’s legacy inspires: Start with conviction, pair it with expertise and courage, and one voice can ripple outward to protect countless others. True change-makers don’t just complain about broken systems — they litigate, advocate, and reimagine them, one patient, one neighbour, one friend, one family member, one case at a time. excal.on.ca

*****What small but bold step could you take today toward the change you want to see?*​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​****​

Take action: @bcombudsperson.