Starting this month, the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) is honoured to offer members of the public, as well as WPS members, the option of affirming legal oaths using an Eagle Feather.
An Eagle Feather is a sacred item and, when held, a person is expected to speak with honesty, truth, and integrity. This option carries the same legal standing as swearing on a Bible or making an affirmation. For many, it also provides cultural meaning and personal comfort.
The Eagle Feathers will be available at all four district stations.
Eight Eagle Feathers were provided to the Service with the guidance and support of Elder Mike Calder, in partnership with Manitoba Conservation. Prepared in accordance with traditional protocols, feathers have been beaded with the colours of the Medicine Wheel and the four Nations. The beadwork was completed by women participating in the Indigenous Traditional Program at the Behavioural Health Foundation.
The WPS is honoured to be able to provide this culturally meaningful option, and we do so with deep respect for Indigenous traditions and the communities we serve.
June marks Indigenous History Month in Canada as a time to share culture, stories, and to honour the history of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Our Service honours this month by deepening our understanding of Indigenous cultures and taking meaningful steps toward inclusivity. This includes adopting important practices into our policies and procedures.
Building deeper ties is both a responsibility of our Service as well as a powerful step forward in being proud community partners. We thank all those involved in this process for their continued commitment to the important steps of reconciliation.
