Leth Polytech gifted Indigenous eagle feather for use in courtroom

Lethbridge Polytechnic’s School of Justice Studies has been gifted an Indigenous eagle feather for use in the school’s courtroom. Former Leth Polytech Indigenous Services Manager Lowell Yellowhorn gifted the feather to instructor Gord Ryall, who then gifted it to the polytechnic for use in the courtroom. Ryall explained that the eagle feather—which symbolizes trust, strength, wisdom, and freedom—can be used as an alternative to religious texts for the swearing of oaths. The feather will help Justice Studies students recognize the various ways testimony can be given in Canadian courtrooms. “The eagle feather is significant for Indigenous people who are testifying on the witness stand,” said Ryall.