Through the support of Indigenous community leaders and Elders, and with the excellent work of employees, including the Indigenous Policing Services team and the Indigenous Employee Advisory Committee, the Eagle Feather initiative continues to grow across New Brunswick.
The Eagle Feather initiative launched in 2020, with 13 New Brunswick RCMP detachments, including Headquarters, having Eagle Feathers available through identified Eagle Feather Keepers. In 2022, an additional 12 Eagle Feathers are now available at detachments across the province.
Detachments with Eagle Feathers available:
Northeast District
• Chaleur Region Detachment (Pabineau First Nation)
• Campbellton Detachment (Eel River Bar First Nation)
• Neguac Detachment (Esgenoôpetitj First Nation)
• Saint-Quentin Detachment
• Sunny Corner Detachment (Metepenagiag (Red Bank) First Nation) and (Natoaganeg (Eel Ground) First Nation)
• Tracadie Detachment
West District
• Grand Manan Detachment
• Keswick Detachment (Kingsclear First Nation)
• Oromocto Detachment (Oromocto First Nation)
• Perth-Andover Detachment
• St. George Detachment
• Saint-Léonard Detachment (Madawaska First Nation)
• St. Stephen Detachment
• Tobique Detachment (Tobique First Nation)
• Western Valley Detachment (Woodstock First
Nation)
Southeast District
• Elsipogtog Detachment (Elsipogtog First Nation)
• Grand Bay-Westfield Detachment
• Richibucto Detachment (Indian Island First Nation & Bouctouche First Nation)
• Sackville Detachment (Fort Folly First Nation)
• Shediac Detachment
Codiac Regional
• Codiac (Dieppe, Moncton and Riverview)
Headquarters in Fredericton
Similar to swearing on a bible or making a legal affirmation, individuals have the option to swear legal oaths and affirmations using an Eagle Feather to help provide comfort in challenging times.
The Eagle Feather is revered in Indigenous culture, as the eagle is believed to fly the highest and closest to the creator. The eagle symbolizes respect, courage, love, honesty, wisdom, truth and humility. Through cultural teachings, First Nations Elders have passed on the knowledge of how these sacred birds could help in the fulfillment of sacred vows and prayers. The Eagle Feather is one of the most sacred and honoured gifts given to an individual.
The New Brunswick RCMP has a longstanding relationship with Indigenous peoples in our province. The Eagle Feather initiative represents a recognition of Indigenous rights, respect of Indigenous culture, and is a step toward strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples through our increased community engagement.