Circle of Eagles Launches Section 84 Project
Honouring Rights. Restoring Balance. Strengthening Community.
Circle of Eagles Lodge Society (COELS) is proud to launch a transformative new initiative centred on Section 84 of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (CCRA), made possible through the generous support of the British Columbia Law Foundation.
Over the next four years, this project will strengthen how Indigenous Brothers, Sisters, and Relatives transition from federal institutions back into community—grounded in culture, dignity, and connection.
Our Mission
To improve the experience of Indigenous Brothers, Sisters, and Relatives seeking release under Section 84, and to support their reintegration into Indigenous communities—whether on reserve, in urban settings, or anywhere cultural connection and support are available.
This work honours the spirit of Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, which affirms Indigenous peoples’ inherent rights to self-determination, healing, and community-based justice.
What Is Section 84?
Section 84 empowers Indigenous inmates and offenders to request release or supervision within an Indigenous community. That community may be a reserve, an urban Indigenous organization, or another place where cultural supports exist.
With the person’s consent, Correctional Service Canada (CSC) must:
- Notify the Indigenous governing body of the inmate’s parole review or statutory release date, and
- Provide that community an opportunity to develop a release and reintegration plan.
Section 84.1 extends this opportunity to individuals under long-term supervision orders.
This legislation recognizes the essential role of Indigenous communities in healing, accountability, and reintegration.
What’s Next
COELS is taking bold, coordinated steps to advance this work:
- Establishing a Section 84 Steering Committee
- Hosting the Section 84 Gathering in Vancouver — November 12 – 14, 2025
- Coordinating Regional Gatherings across B.C., inviting Knowledge Keepers, stakeholders, and Brothers, Sisters, and Relatives with lived experience
- Gathering community input to strengthen the Section 84 process
- Sharing regular updates right here—check back often
Interested in participating or learning more? Contact s.84@coels.ca .
Why COELS?
For over 50 years, COELS has supported Indigenous Brothers, Sisters, and Relatives through culturally grounded programs, housing, and healing initiatives. With more than 25 years of experience in Section 84 processes, COELS has earned a national reputation for excellence in Indigenous community corrections.
In partnership with the Vancouver Indigenous Justice Committee, and alongside CSC and community allies, we uphold:
- Truth and Reconciliation
- Guidance from Elders
- Traditional Teachings and Natural Law
We operate as a family circle—offering home, healing, and hope to those seeking transformation.
Why Section 84 Matters
Section 84 was created to help reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in federal custody by empowering communities to take the lead in reintegration.
“Community support under Section 84 of the Conditional Release Act is going to be one of the keys to keeping the Indigenous population in prisons down.” — CSC Commissioner Anne Kelly
Research confirms that Section 84 participants are less likely to return to custody and remain in the community longer before any suspension.
Join the Circle
The success of Section 84 depends on community leadership and collaboration.
If your community—urban, rural, or on reserve—would like to learn more or get involved, contact s.84@coels.ca .
Together, we can build a more just, respectful, and supportive system for future generations.