TORONTO, June 14, 2005 -- Aboriginal activist and renowned musician Robbie Robertson received an honorary Doctor of Law degree from York University's Faculty of Education today during convocation ceremonies taking place on York's Keele Campus.
To see archival photos of Robertson held in York's Clara Thomas Archives, click here.

Active in the advancement of aboriginal rights, culture and arts, Mr. Robertson is an award-winning musician of mixed aboriginal ancestry. A legendary musician and songwriter in his own right, he was the driving force behind The Band, collaborating with musicians such as Ronnie Hawkins and Bob Dylan. Mr. Robertson is also a talented composer, having written scores for the Martin Scorsese films Raging Bull and The Color of Money. He is the recipient of three Juno awards, as well as lifetime achievement awards from the National Academy of Songwriters, the Native American Music Awards, and the Aboriginal Achievement Awards; his recordings have been credited with helping First Nations music gain mainstream acceptance and recognition. Mr. Robertson’s international stature as an artist was recently reinforced in his performance at the opening ceremony of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Games. He is active as well in the area of prison reform and in particular in matters of aboriginal prisoner rights.

Photo:  Robbie Robertson (left) with Ronnie Hawkins in the early 1960's.