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. Recalling an instance where ceremonial items were requested but unavailable, Brass realized the unmet need and decided to take action.
Together with her sister, Brass donated 14 eagle feathers to the provincial court system to facilitate the oath-taking process for witnesses. This initiative aimed to maintain the integrity of the oath while accommodating diverse cultural practices.
Brass, a Saulteaux from Peepeekisis First Nation, emphasized the importance of allowing individuals to use items like eagle feathers, Bibles, Qur’ans, or Torahs to signify their commitment to truth and honesty while providing testimony in court.
The donation of eagle feathers was made in memory of Brass’s father, with Bob Mills, former chief of the Skidegate Band, contributing the feathers. The provincial court system in Saskatchewan now has eagle feathers available at 13 locations for individuals to use during oath ceremonies.
Judge Brass highlighted the significance of having eagle feathers readily accessible in courtrooms, noting that people appreciate the option and are more likely to use them when provided. She explained the symbolic importance of eagle feathers, particularly for Saulteaux people, representing a connection to higher truths and spiritual beliefs.
The presence of eagle feathers in courtrooms was seen as a positive step towards inclusivity by Dorthea Swiftwolfe, an advocate from the City of Saskatoon, who emphasized their symbolic and motivational value in her work. Audrey Armstrong, Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator in Saskatoon, acknowledged the importance of eagle feathers in courtrooms as a step towards reconciliation, recognizing the need for broader systemic changes to achieve meaningful progress.