Editor, 

 There are sound arguments why it is time to appoint an Indigenous jurist to the Supreme Court of Canada.

Osgoode Hall professor Kent McNeil’s recent op-ed makes the point that Canada is already a multi jurisdictional nation; English common law, French civil law and Indigenous law. While the first two are represented by jurists on Canada’s highest court, the third has yet to receive a representative on the bench.

Even someone with my layperson understanding of Indigenous issues can see the huge inherent benefit of strengthening the weave and vibrancy of Canada’s social fabric from the healthy accommodation of appointing an Indigenous jurist to sit on Canada’s Supreme Court. McNeil assures us Canada has its own pool of qualified Indigenous jurists to choose from.

Since 1867 Canadian courts have recognized Indigenous law, in family law, adoption and marriage. The appointment of Indigenous jurists to the Supreme Court would be a logical step for Canada on the road to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It sends a powerful message to everyone.

Jon Peter Christoff

West Kelowna, BC