Great Concordian: Jacqueline Beckles, general counsel with the Department of Justice Canada

As general counsel with the Department of Justice Canada since 2009, Jacqueline Beckles, BA 93, provides strategic advice to the Minister of Justice on a range of complex matters of critical importance to the country.

A graduate of the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Law, she first worked as a defense attorney in the nation’s capital from 2003 to 2006. Her professional journey also includes a clerkship for the Supreme Court of Barbados and a research fellowship at the University of the West Indies.

At the Department of Justice, Beckles also co-leads the Black Employees’ Network, which advocates for an equitable workplace environment.

“I’m fortunate to be in a position where if I see systemic disparities, I can challenge them,” Beckles says. “It’s gratifying to know that these efforts can not only benefit current employees, but also pave the way for a more just future within the Canadian legal system.”

Beckles serves as secretary of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers and as vice-president of the association’s Ottawa chapter. As co-chair of the Law Society of Ontario’s Equity Advisory Group, she advances initiatives for diversity and inclusion within the legal profession.

A member of both the Ontario Bar Association’s Equality Committee and Canadian Bar Association’s Governance and Equity Committee, Beckles also contributes her expertise as a member of the advisory council of the Black (Canadian) Law Journal.

The Great Concordian attributes much of her work ethic and commitment to justice to her mother, who was deeply involved in activism and community work in Montreal.

“When you learn at the feet of women like my mom, Jean Parris, Rosetta Cadogan, BA 85, and Myrna Lashley, BA 84, you understand the importance of advocacy and representation,” Beckles says. “If I’m the only Black woman in the room, then I need to open the door for the next person.”

When you reflect on your time as a Concordia student, what stands out?

Jacqueline Beckles: My time at Concordia was characterized by community. I was a member of the Caribbean Students Union, which provided a platform to connect with others from similar backgrounds. And the Department of Political Science made me feel like the world was opening up to me beyond my neighbourhood.

Many of the people I met as an undergraduate are still in my life today. Concordia really opened my eyes and helped me form lifelong friendships.

What are some of the factors that have enabled your success?

JB: Openness to opportunities. There was some planning because I knew, even at Concordia, that I wanted to be a lawyer. But I didn’t intend to live in Ottawa long term. I fell in love with the city and what it had to offer.

Most of my career trajectory has been characterized by an awareness of just being open to new possibilities and seizing opportunities that are rewarding and bring joy.

What advice do you have for students who may want to follow in your footsteps?

JB: Follow your interests. If something looks like it might be fun and rewarding, follow that. Your instincts are telling you something about yourself. Don’t feel obligated to follow what others think you should do. Be fearless and jump right in.

People often seek out perfect career advice, but your path is unique to you. You know what drives you and motivates you, so follow that.

How does it feel to be a Great Concordian?

JB: I’m verklempt! I’m honestly overwhelmed. It is such an honour to be selected.

I live a life driven by what feels right and what I believe to be right, trying to leave the world in a better place than I found it. To have Concordia acknowledge someone like me feels amazing.