Revitalizing Roles: The Inclusion of Indigenous Elders in Contemporary Judicial Contexts

Abstract

The emergent over-representation of Indigenous persons incarcerated within the Canadian criminal justice system highlights the ineffectiveness of Western methods of justice in addressing offending behaviour. Indigenous justice practices diverge dramatically from retributory measures, reflecting an Indigenous worldview fundamentally based in the relationship with and connectedness to all things. Elders are integral to these processes, maintaining a vital link of cultural identity, as well as offering support and guidance through the transmission of traditional teachings and experience. The goal of this study is to delve deeply into understanding the current role of Elders in contemporary justice practices with Indigenous offenders, in a collaborative and relationship based manner that honours the sacredness that defines Indigenous research.