In a provincial court in the Estevan, Sask., region, Judge Michelle Brass observed individuals bringing their own eagle feathers to court. This was necessary as the courthouse typically only offered religious texts for individuals to use when taking oaths as witnesses. Judge Brass recalled an incident where someone requested a ceremonial item that was not available, prompting her to realize the unmet need.
As a response, Judge Brass and her sister took action by donating 14 eagle feathers to the provincial court system for individuals to use while swearing to tell the truth in court. Being of Saulteaux descent from Peepeekisis First Nation in the Treaty 4 territory of Saskatchewan, Judge Brass emphasized the importance of maintaining the oath’s integrity while accommodating a diverse range of individuals.
The donation of eagle feathers was made in honor of Judge Brass’s late father, with Bob Mills, former chief of the Skidegate Band on Haida Gwaii, providing the feathers. The initiative aims to ensure that people can hold an eagle feather or speak in its presence when giving their oaths at thirteen provincial court locations in Saskatchewan.
Judge Brass expressed that while individuals could already bring their own eagle feathers to court, the presence of provided feathers made a significant difference in users’ appreciation and readiness to utilize them. She highlighted the symbolic significance of eagle feathers, particularly to Saulteaux people like herself, representing a connection to higher truths beyond individual perspectives.
For Dorthea Swiftwolfe, the City of Saskatoon’s Auntie Advocate, the eagle feather holds immense importance, symbolizing her dedication to advocacy work. She hopes that the inclusion of eagle feathers in provincial courts will foster a more inclusive environment and recognize the voices of Indigenous families.
Audrey Armstrong, Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator of the City of Saskatoon, emphasized the significance of having eagle feathers in courthouses as a positive step towards reconciliation. However, she noted that deeper systemic issues still need to be addressed to achieve meaningful progress.
Overall, the introduction of eagle feathers in Saskatchewan’s provincial courts signifies a step towards inclusivity and acknowledgment of Indigenous traditions within the legal system.