Canada’s 1st judge dedicated to reconciliation appointed in Manitoba

Manitoba has taken a significant step toward reconciliation by appointing its first associate chief judge dedicated to this cause. Judge Jerilee Ryle, a member of Lake St. Martin First Nation, will serve in this newly created role, focusing on healing and strengthening the relationship between the provincial court system and Indigenous communities.

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I got into law to help Indigenous people. 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.

In her new capacity, Ryle will not only perform standard judicial duties but will also actively support reconciliation efforts. This includes engaging with Indigenous communities, educating the public about the court system, and developing policy. Ryle expressed her deep personal commitment to this work, stating, “I got into law to help Indigenous people. 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.”

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I’m very humbled and grateful to have this opportunity.

The appointment addresses the legacy of colonialism and the persistent overrepresentation of Indigenous people within Canada's justice system. Justice Minister Matt Wiebe acknowledged this history, noting, “The justice system, as we know it, has not always been fair to Indigenous people, and we’ve seen the legacy of colonialism in the overrepresentation of Indigenous people within our justice system.” He expressed confidence in Ryle's ability to provide strong leadership and deepen connections between the justice system and Indigenous nations.

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In terms of the first year, I see a lot of engagement with the Indigenous communities.

Leaders from Indigenous organizations have applauded the initiative. Stephanie Scott, Executive Director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, called the position an ode to the work of the late Senator Murray Sinclair. Scott stated that the role has the potential to transform how the court system engages with Indigenous nations, creating a system that respects Indigenous traditions and lived experiences. The hope is that this model will inspire similar systemic changes across the country, underscoring the principle that true reconciliation requires truth.

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I’m confident that Judge Ryle will provide strong leadership, deepening the connections between Manitoba’s justice system and the Indigenous nations throughout this province.