Cote First Nation launches new cultural support initiative at court

A blessing ceremony marked a new initiative that will see an Elder provide prayers, smudging and guidance in court beginning in 2026.

Cote First Nation launched a new initiative to provide cultural support in the justice system, which will start in 2026.

Band members and dignitaries gathered on Tuesday for a blessing ceremony at Kamsack’s Legion Hall functioning as the town’s courthouse.

“This partnership with the justice system will open doors of healing, cleansing, and possibly lowering the rate of our people that are coming to court,” said Chief George Cote of Cote First Nation in his speech.

Starting in 2026, the First Nation will provide cultural support in court for both victims and offenders. In practice, it means First Nation elders will be present at the courthouse to provide prayers, smudging, and guidance for those who seek it.

Cote First Nation firmly believes that this new initiative will build trustful relationships and decrease the number of offences.

The initiative was spearheaded by the band’s cultural coordinator, Cory Cadotte.

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“It all started off about a year ago. I started working with the RCMP and the Chief and Council of Cote,” Cadotte said. “We started having meetings with Sergeant O’Neil [from the RCMP] about things we can do to improve relationships between the justice system and our communities.”

Cadotte is proud of his project, which was warmly welcomed by the judge in Kamsack as well.

“I like to think that the court has always been a place of truth,” Judge Derek Maher addressed the audience. “I think it’s important that our function here is not only about truth, but also about reconciliation. That has to be a part of what we do.”

Keeseekoose First Nation’s Chief Alvin Jr. Musqua said it’s “monumental” to move forward with the program.

“For far too long, our people have come to the courts and through the court system,” he said. “They need that extra support, they need support from the elders.”

With Tuesday’s blessing ceremony, the new initiative is ready to launch immediately in 2026, with cultural services available on Tuesdays.