The Challenge:
A critical aspect of both Track 1, reform of the existing justice system, and Track 2, the rebuilding of First Nations justice institutions and legal orders, is supporting and expanding the roles to be played by Elders and Knowledge Keepers. These roles include everything from ensuring and reinforcing the cultural appropriateness of how the justice system is operating, to applying knowledge of First Nations laws and teachings in First Nations Courts. Elders also have an important role to play in healing and trauma-centred approaches to building well-being and effective and proactive justice programming in communities.
The Solution
BCFNJC recognizes that Elders and Knowledge Keepers are critical pillars of the community who, through their knowledge, teachings, and compassion, can help progress an individual’s healing journey and restore balance within a community. Through Strategy 21, BCFNJC will establish and expand roles across the justice system for Elders and Knowledge Keepers to support our foundational work, including support for community-based justice programming, cultural competency and appropriateness, and the work of Indigenous Justice Centres. BCFNJC will establish an Elders and Knowledge Keepers Council who can facilitate this work and ensure Elders and Knowledge Keepers are providing advice on all aspects of the Strategy’s implementation.
