By Times Chronicle Staff
BC RCMP is joining seven other RCMP Divisions across the country that have already adopted the Eagle Feather Protocol.
First introduced in Nova Scotia, the RCMP has been providing victims, witnesses, suspects and police officers the option to swear legal oaths on an eagle feather. Under this protocol the eagle feather is used in the same way as a Bible or an affirmation.
“In the spirit of reconciliation, the RCMP has committed to using the eagle feather in support of numerous calls to action recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
“It is also a part of the RCMP’s commitment to create a more inclusive and relevant justice system for Indigenous people,” the RCMP said.
For many Indigenous people, the eagle feather is regarded as sacred and is widely respected throughout Turtle Island (North America). Before being sent to RCMP detachments, the eagle feathers are cleansed during a smudging ceremony led by an Elder.
The BC RCMP Eagle Feather Protocol will be utilized by Indigenous and non-Indigenous victims, witnesses, suspects, police officers and all RCMP employees throughout the province, the force said.
