Introduction
In March 2024, the NJI had the opportunity to meet with the Elders of the Duncan First Nations Court (DFNC) to learn about their approaches and backgrounds. Following a day of discussions, NJI staff then attended a sitting of the DFNC. In this Module, we will share some of the lessons from the Elders and show how the court operates.
This is just one example of the vibrant Indigenous-led justice projects that are operating across the country. It is our hope that learning about this program will help inspire you to reach out to local Indigenous groups to explore opportunities to work together.
Acknowledgements
This course is being developed with a Judicial Planning Committee comprised of the following judges. We are thankful for their generosity of time and contributions:
- The Honourable Justice Ken Champagne, Court of King's Bench of Manitoba
- The Honourable Judge Kael McKenzie, Provincial Court of Manitoba
- The Honourable Justice Stacy Ryan, Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador
- The Honourable Chief Justice Shannon Smallwood, Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories
- The Honourable Judge Karen Whonnock, Provincial Court of British Columbia
- The Honourable Marion Buller, Chancellor, University of Victoria
- The Honourable Leonard S. (Tony) Mandamin, Retired, Federal Court - Trial Division
The content of this course was last updated in August 2025.