Mounties build 1st permanent sweat lodge on RCMP land at their N. S. headquarters

Nova Scotia RCMP have constructed a permanent sweat lodge at their provincial headquarters — a first for Canada’s national police force.

A ceremony unveiling the sweat lodge was held at the Nova Scotia RCMP headquarters in Dartmouth on Tuesday.

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Asst. Comm. Brian Brennan, commanding officer of Nova Scotia RCMP, Chief Leroy Denny of Eskasoni First Nation and Coun. Kerry Prosper of Paq’tnkeke First Nation were in attendance.

Made of natural materials, a sweat lodge is a space where sacred purification ceremonies or “sweats” are held for the purpose of spiritual cleansing.‎

The establishment of a permanent sweat lodge will allow RCMP employees to attend sweat ceremonies for self-reflection and prayer.

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The introduction of a sweat lodge comes after a 2017 decision by the Nova Scotia RCMP to introduce the Eagle Feather as a new option for victims, witnesses and police officers to swear legal oaths upon, similar to a Bible or affirmation.