Manitoba appoints first reconciliation judge
Judge Jerilee Ryle, Anishinaabe from Lake St. Martin First Nation, becomes Canada's first associate chief judge of reconciliation; seven-year term begins July 2.
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Manitoba has appointed the country's first associate chief judge of reconciliation, a role designed to strengthen relationships between the justice system and Indigenous communities.
Judge Jerilee Ryle, Anishinaabe and a member of Lake St. Martin First Nation, was sworn in to the position Friday by Justice Minister Matt Wiebe. She will serve a seven-year term beginning July 2.
"I got into law to help Indigenous peoples. So being able to have these opportunities to work alongside and empower Indigenous peoples and communities, with a goal of healing Indigenous communities and peoples, is certainly very impactful for me," Ryle said at the announcement in Winnipeg's Grand Law Library.
Ryle will perform standard associate justice duties—supporting the chief judge in court management, advancing judicial education, and developing policy—while taking on the additional responsibility of connecting with Indigenous communities across Manitoba. She will report back to the court with recommendations on how to align operations with Indigenous cultures and traditions.
Provincial Court Chief Judge Ryan Rolston noted that Indigenous people continue to be overrepresented in Manitoba's jails and courtrooms, a problem that "seems only to be getting worse" despite ongoing efforts for change. "When I've been in those courts myself and left, I've often wondered how the people feel about what we do," Rolston said. "I think it's pretty clear how they feel."
Changes the court has already made include using traditional drum songs at swearing-in ceremonies and allowing judges to take their oath on an eagle feather. Future changes may include expanded use of Indigenous courtrooms being set up in Winnipeg and other areas across the province.
Justice Minister Wiebe said the appointment reflects the government's commitment to concrete steps addressing systemic patterns affecting Indigenous people. "The justice system as we know it has not always been fair to Indigenous people. We've seen the legacy of colonialism in the overrepresentation of Indigenous people within our justice system. Reconciliation requires partnership, and it requires listening to Indigenous leadership," he said.
Ryle said she brings her experience "of walking in two worlds" to the role. "I understand that this role calls for humility more than authority, courage more than certainty, and an unwavering commitment to truth, even when that truth is uncomfortable."