Mohawk lawyer Stephen Ford will discuss the Stanley case with Professors Don Stuart and Noah Weisbord on March 28.

Queen’s Law faculty have organized an upcoming panel discussion that will critically examine the trial and acquittal of Gerald Stanley in the killing of Colten Boushie and the Crown decision not to appeal the case.

The panel, taking place on Wednesday, March 28 at 11:30 am in Dunning Hall, will feature criminal law professors Don Stuart and Noah Weisbord in conversation with Stephen Ford, a Mohawk criminal and constitutional lawyer from the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. Professor Lisa Kelly, also an expert in criminal law, will moderate the discussion and Q & A. The Faculty will also be streaming the panel on Facebook, at facebook.com/queensulaw/ -- the first time the Faculty has streamed a panel directly on the social media channel.
 
“This case has generated a great deal of controversy and heated debate,” said Dean Bill Flanagan. “I have met with Indigenous law students who have expressed their deep concerns to me about the case and the challenging questions it raises for many about criminal justice in Canada, and our society’s larger commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada.”

Flanagan added, “While I believe that, as Dean of Law, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the outcomes in individual cases, I do want to reaffirm the Faculty’s commitment towards Indigenous students, that Queen’s be a place that is welcoming for all, and a law school that is committed to incorporating Indigenous perspectives and critical reflections as a fundamental part of who we are and what we do.”

As noted by Dean Flanagan, the upcoming panel discussion “reflects part of the Faculty's commitment towards reconciliation. It will be an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the implications of the case for criminal justice in Canada and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada.”