In the Estevan, Sask., area, Judge Michelle Brass observed individuals bringing their own eagle feathers to the provincial court as they were often provided with only religious texts for oaths. Judge Brass recounted an incident where she had to supply ceremonial items like sweetgrass and sage grass from her car due to their unavailability. Recognizing the need for such items, Judge Brass and her sister donated 14 eagle feathers to the provincial court system for oath-taking purposes.
Coming from the Peepeekisis First Nation in Saskatchewan’s Treaty 4 territory, Judge Brass emphasized the importance of allowing various items, such as eagle feathers, Bibles, Qur’ans, or Torahs, for oath-taking to signify truth and honesty during court proceedings. The eagle feathers, gifted by Bob Mills to Brass’s sister Cecile Brass in memory of their father, will be available in thirteen provincial court locations in Saskatchewan.
Judge Brass pointed out the significance of having eagle feathers readily available in courtrooms, stating that people appreciate and utilize them when present. She highlighted the symbolic importance of eagle feathers, particularly for the Saulteaux community, representing a connection to higher truths beyond individuals.
Dorthea Swiftwolfe, the City of Saskatoon’s Auntie Advocate, emphasized the symbolic importance of eagle feathers, expressing that they help her stay focused on her advocacy work. She hopes that the presence of eagle feathers in provincial courts will promote inclusivity and recognition for Indigenous families.
Audrey Armstrong, Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator for the City of Saskatoon, acknowledged the positive step of having eagle feathers in courthouses but stressed the need for further actions towards reconciliation. She emphasized the importance of representation in a system that historically marginalized Indigenous communities and highlighted the ongoing work required for meaningful reconciliation efforts.
