Indigenous people appearing in Nova Scotia courthouses now have the option to take legal affirmations with a sacred eagle feather.
The Nova Scotia Judiciary says each main courthouse in the province will have one eagle feather for courtroom use and a second for the front counter.
READ MORE: N.S. RCMP, provincial courts to allow people to swear oaths with eagle feathers
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It says those taking legal affirmations may hold the eagle feather, or have it placed in front of them, while affirming to tell the truth much in the same way a Bible is available to swear an oath.
Individuals are also permitted to bring their own eagle feather with them to court.
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Chief Paul Prosper of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Chiefs says the eagle feather is “a sacred part” of Indigenous spirituality.
READ MORE: Nova Scotia set to mark grand opening of Indigenous court
Nova Scotia Chief Justice Michael MacDonald says introducing the feather will help ensure a more inclusive and relevant legal system for Indigenous people, and is another step toward reconciliation.
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