On October 1, 2025, the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN) hosted a Community Protection Law (CPL) Review and Consultation Session to discuss proposed amendments to strengthen our Nation’s safety and well-being. The event was chaired by Chief Angela Levesseur and Justice Portfolio Holders Councillor Jeremiah Spence and Councillor Kim Linklater, with participation from Chief and Council, the NCN Justice Department, and community members.

The session reflected the proactive leadership of Chief and Council, who continue to prioritize safety, healing, and self-determination for the NCN Nation. Through open dialogue and community input, the Nation reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and order based on Nehetho traditional values.

The CPL event began with an opening prayer from a community Elder, followed by remarks from Chief Angela Levasseur. In her address, Chief Levasseur emphasized the importance of maintaining community safety through laws rooted in traditional customs and collective responsibility.

Carol Kobliski, Chief of Law Enforcement, delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting the successes and challenges of enforcing the Community Protection Law since its enactment in 2019. She noted that the CPL has given NCN the legal tools to address issues such as bootlegging, drug trafficking, violent crime, and human trafficking. Kobliski also highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between law enforcement, leadership, and community members to uphold peace and security to our Nation

After a short break, Justice Department representatives Bonnie Campbell and pour lawyers Greg Johnson and Zackery Anderson presented a series of proposed amendments to update and strengthen the CPL. The revisions aim to ensure fairness, transparency, and alignment with NCN’s evolving needs.

Key proposed amendments included:

  • Appeal Rights: Individuals subject to eviction or banishment orders may now request a hearing before the Peacekeepers Tribunal within a defined timeframe, ensuring they have an opportunity to be heard.
  • Restorative and Reparative Justice: The Tribunal will have authority to recommend culturally appropriate, healing-based justice measures that focus on accountability, reconciliation, and personal growth.
  • Reinvestment in Community: Money seized from illegal activities will be redirected to fund youth programming and justice initiatives, supporting prevention and education.
  • Youth and Safety Measures: Recommendations included a youth curfew (for ages 16 and under) and a zero-tolerance policy for gang activity, as well as an ATV/off-road vehicle curfew to enhance community safety.

These changes demonstrate NCN’s balanced approach to justice, one that upholds accountability while promoting community healing and rehabilitation.

Following the presentations, breakout sessions were held with NCN Directors and Managers facilitating small group discussions. Participants reviewed the proposed amendments, shared local perspectives, and identified areas where the CPL could be clarified or strengthened.

Each group presented their feedback to the larger assembly, emphasizing the importance of consistency in enforcement, culturally grounded rehabilitation options, and clear communication between leadership and citizens. These sessions reflected the spirit of collaboration and transparency that guides NCN’s governance approach.

The Community Protection Law has served as a cornerstone of NCN’s self-governance. It empowers the Nation to regulate substances, enforce safety measures, and uphold community standards in alignment with Nehetho customs and values.

The CPL not only protects citizens from harmful activities but also reinforces NCN’s sovereignty and inherent right to create its own laws. Through continued dialogue, Chief and Council are ensuring that the law remains responsive, fair, and reflective of the Nation’s collective vision for safety and wellness.

The session concluded with a closing prayer from an Elder, bringing the evening to an end in reflection and unity. Chief and Council expressed gratitude to all participants for their valuable input and reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to building a safe, healthy, and strong Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation.