THUNDER BAY -- The opening ceremony was held Monday afternoon for northwestern Ontario's first Indigenous People's Court.
The court is situated in the Aboriginal Conference Settlement Suite at the Thunder Bay Courthouse.
It is designed to assist in the healing of indigenous clients in conflict with the law by using an alternative approach to sentencing aligned with indigenous culture and traditions. The ultimate goal is to reduce the number of indigenous people in correctional facilities.
In a news release, Charlene Baglien, executive-director of the Thunder Bay Indian Friendship Centre, described the opening as "a momentous occasion," adding "We are excited to celebrate after years of hard work and dedication to get to this point."
The Indian Friendship Centre and Nishnawbe Aski Legal Services began working on the project in 2010.
Indigenous People's Court Coordinator Frances Wesley said previously that addressing the overrepresentation of indigenous people in custody requires that time be taken to consider the life experiences of indigenous peoples and how they have been impacted by those experiences.
Wesley added that the court "will draw on the wisdom and experience of local elders...to ensure a wholistic approach that is consistent with the medicine wheel teachings" of indigenous people in the northwest.
The court's basis relies on a healing process that begins with individuals taking responsibility for their actions.
It will have its first sitting on Monday, March 6.
