Witnesses, victims, and offenders appearing in the Provincial Court of Newfoundland and Labrador will now have the option to take an affirmation or oath with a sacred eagle feather. The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, joined Chief Judge Pamela J. Goulding, and members of the Mi’kmaw community for a special eagle feather bestowment ceremony in Stephenville.

“Our government has been working hard to improve access to justice for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and to ensure the system works for everyone. Through collaboration with Indigenous organizations and Provincial Court, I am pleased that the eagle feather will be available to those appearing in our provincial courts. I am proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish by working together knowing that we as representatives of our justice system can change our approach to do better for Indigenous people. Introducing the feather into the court process will help to ensure a more inclusive legal system.” Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

Traditionally, in some Indigenous cultures, the eagle is considered sacred because it flies the highest and closest to the Creator. Its feathers are a symbol of spirituality that are used in many traditional ceremonies.

“Discussions about having an eagle feather displayed during court proceedings in Conne River took place with Judge Robert Fowler Sr. ma ...