Mandy Gull-Masty

Biography

Mandy Gull-Masty is a Canadian politician, Indigenous leader, and advocate for Cree governance who has made a significant impact in Quebec’s political landscape. A dedicated member of the Liberal Party of Canada, Gull-Masty was elected as the Member of Parliament for Abitibi—Baie-James—Nunavik—Eeyou in the 2025 Canadian federal election, succeeding Sylvie Bérubé. Her journey to public office was shaped by years of experience in Indigenous leadership, environmental stewardship, and community development.

Gull-Masty is a member of the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi and has spent her career championing Indigenous rights, governance, and sustainable development. She made history on July 29, 2021, when she became the first woman elected as Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee). In this role, she led a political body representing nearly 18,000 people across the vast James Bay and Nunavik regions in Northern Quebec. Her tenure as Grand Chief was marked by her commitment to balancing sustainable resource development with the preservation of Cree land, language, and culture.

Before assuming the role of Grand Chief, Gull-Masty served as Deputy Grand Chief, where she contributed to initiatives that harmonized Cree values with provincial projects. One of her most notable contributions was her involvement in the $4.7-billion Grande Alliance, a framework for infrastructure development and environmental protection that was the primary work of former Grand Chief Abel Bosum. Her leadership in this initiative reinforced her reputation as a dedicated advocate for Indigenous-led development and environmental sustainability.

Gull-Masty’s educational journey at Concordia University included dual undergraduate degrees in political science and public affairs and policy studies. She pursued her studies while working as an executive assistant to the Deputy Grand Chief, gaining firsthand experience in governance and policy implementation. Her ability to bridge theory and practice has been instrumental in her leadership approach, ensuring that political decisions align with the needs and aspirations of Indigenous communities.

Her transition into federal politics was driven by her desire to bring a strong Indigenous voice to Ottawa. In March 2025, she announced her candidacy for the Liberal Party in Abitibi—Baie-James—Nunavik—Eeyou, stepping down as Grand Chief to focus on her campaign. Her platform emphasized Indigenous self-governance, environmental protection, and economic development. She secured a decisive victory in the federal election, marking a new chapter in her political career.

Shortly after her election, Gull-Masty was appointed Minister of Indigenous Services in Prime Minister Mark Carney’s cabinet, becoming the first Indigenous person to hold the role. In this position, she has focused on strengthening Indigenous-led governance, improving healthcare and education for Indigenous communities, and advancing reconciliation efforts. Her leadership in federal politics continues to reflect her dedication to progressive policies, economic resilience, and community advocacy.

Her vision for Abitibi—Baie-James—Nunavik—Eeyou and Canada is one of inclusivity, sustainability, and opportunity, ensuring that future generations can thrive in a country that values Indigenous leadership, responsible governance, and social equity. Her contributions to both Indigenous governance and federal politics have positioned her as a prominent figure in Canadian public life.