Former Ontario lieutenant governor James Bartleman has died. He was 83.

He held the position from 2002 to 2007.

Bartleman was a member of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation and was a staunch advocate for Indigenous people.

During his term, his priorities were to eliminate the stigma of mental illness, fight racism and discrimination, and encourage young Indigenous people.

He also launched the first Lieutenant Governor’s Book Drive, which collected 1.2 million books for First Nations schools and Native Friendship Centres.

Current Ontario lieutenant governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell says Bartleman died on Monday and she’s sending her deepest condolences to his wife and children and their families.