Promote and support the implementation of an Indigenous navigator position within the criminal justice and child welfare systems.

The Law Foundation collaborates with First Light to introduce Indigenous Justice Navigator role

In May 2025, The Law Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador provided grant funding to First Light to pilot an Indigenous Justice Navigator position. The position has been providing one-on-one support to community members at various stages of their involvement with the criminal justice system, including court accompaniment, education for community members about legal processes, and support to assert their rights. The Indigenous Justice Navigator has worked alongside legal counsel to advocate for alternative sanctions, discharge planning, and Gladue reports.

The creation of this role partly achieves this Call for Change. However, because the role is supported by grant-based funding, its continuity is at risk without a multiyear funding agreement.

Need identified: More support needed for Indigenous youth in child welfare system

Community contributors emphasized the need for stronger support for Indigenous children, youth, and families involved with the child welfare system. Indigenous children remain significantly overrepresented in care – a continuation of colonial systems that separated them from their families and communities. Today, more Indigenous children are in government care than were ever enrolled in residential schools at one time. While First Light offers programming for Indigenous families, a dedicated navigator is needed to help families understand and move through the child welfare system.

For the Department of Justice and Public Safety (JPS):

• Allocate multiyear funding in the upcoming budget cycle to ensure the continuity of services provided by the Indigenous Justice Navigator to support Indigenous individuals who are involved in the criminal justice system.

For the Department of Social Supports and Well-Being:

• Allocate funding in the upcoming budget cycle for an Indigenous Navigator in the Child Welfare System.