FAQ: Section 84 Kwanatul Conference on Indigenous Restorative Justice

What is Section 84 and why is it important?

Section 84 of Canada’s Corrections and Conditional Release Act gives Indigenous people in federal custody the legal right to develop a release plan with their community and an Indigenous organization. It’s important because it affirms Indigenous self-determination in the justice system and addresses the over-representation of Indigenous people in prisons, who represent 32% of federal prisoners despite being only 5% of Canada’s population.

Who is organizing the Section 84 Kwanatul Conference?

The Circle of Eagles Lodge Society (COELS), one of Canada’s leading Indigenous authorities on Section 84 release planning, is hosting the conference. COELS has operated on Coast Salish territory for over 55 years, providing culturally safe halfway houses and healing programs.

When and where is the Section 84 conference taking place?

The conference runs from November 13-14, 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver (655 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC), with pre-registration and networking on November 12 from 5-8:00pm PST.

What are the main benefits of Section 84 reintegration?

Section 84 reduces recidivism and strengthens public safety by reconnecting returning citizens with ceremony, culture, and community support. It creates a pathway home that is community-led, culturally grounded, and trauma-informed, healing not just the person returning but also families, neighborhoods, and justice systems.

Who should attend this conference and why?

The conference invites justice professionals, Indigenous organizations, people formerly in prison, and community citizens committed to reconciliation. Attendees will help shape a new future for Indigenous reintegration through workshops, policy sessions, and cultural ceremonies.

What does ‘Kwanatul’ mean and what activities are planned?

Kwanatul means ‘Together’ and the gathering features Elder & Resident-Led Circles sharing lived experiences, workshops on implementing Section 84 planning, policy and advocacy sessions, cultural ceremonies, and shared meals honoring Coast Salish protocols.

How does Section 84 relate to Truth and Reconciliation?

Section 84 reintegration directly fulfills the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 35 by creating community-led, culturally grounded pathways for Indigenous people returning from federal custody.

How can I register for the conference?

Registration is available at section84.com, with detailed event schedules including a November 13 press conference at 8am PST, daily programs from 9am-4:30pm, and a Feast Ceremony from 6-9pm on November 13.

What makes Circle of Eagles qualified to host this conference?

Circle of Eagles has supported over 1,300 Indigenous people through its lodges and outreach services, delivers more than 36,000 meals annually through its outreach programs, and has decades of experience providing Elder-led healing programs and culturally safe halfway houses.

How does restorative justice through Section 84 differ from traditional corrections?

As CEO Merv Thomas stated, ‘Section 84 is a public-safety solution rooted in culture, not corrections.’ It empowers Indigenous communities to lead reintegration through restorative justice practices rather than traditional correctional approaches.