The Department of Justice and Correctional Services started down the path of establishing an Indigenous justice system that reflects Cree values, culture and way of life over 10 years ago. This is unique in Canada and rarely seen elsewhere in the world.

Dec. 4 – 6, 2018 – the Department of Justice and Correctional Services of the Cree Nation Government (Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) hosted their first ever “Indigenous People’s Justice Conference: Reconciliation and Capacity Building” in Gatineau, QC. The event provided a unique and historic platform for leaders in Indigenous justice from across the globe to speak about core issues surrounding the conference’s theme. 330 participants from around the world at the conference attempted to build dialogue and understanding around many issues within Indigenous justice including:

1. Educate, bring awareness to, and orient participants and general public in Indigenous justice and related issues;
2. Create an enhanced dialogue between participants on issues including but not limited to Indigenous justice, corrections, child welfare, crime prevention, conflict resolution, human rights, and more;
3. Stimulate a greater discourse within the Cree Nation, Quebec and Canada.
4. Fulfill some of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, in respect to justice, human rights, education and awareness on Indigenous issues and peoples;
5. Resulting from participation of Canadian and international speakers, leaders and delegates, facilitate knowledge mobilization and transference opportunities to and from DOJCS staff on emerging best and promising practices in Indigenous Justice;
6. Implement various provisions under the the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) and other agreements in relation to the training, education and awareness of personnel working in Cree justice system;