Mikomosis and the Wetiko, created by Val Napoleon and a team of talented artists and scholars, is a groundbreaking graphic novel that makes a compelling case for creating space for Indigenous law in contemporary society. Designed for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous audiences, this visually engaging story reimagines a late 19th-century murder trial that resulted in the execution of a Nehiyaw (Cree) man named Mikomosis.
A Story Rooted in Indigenous Law
While the case itself is a composite of multiple historical events, it serves as a springboard for examining Indigenous legal traditions through a Cree perspective. Mikomosis and the Wetiko is more than just a historical narrative; it’s a well-researched, thought-provoking educational tool crafted by Indigenous legal scholars to foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous law and justice.
The novel introduces the Trickster character, Big Headache, a central figure in Indigenous storytelling. Big Headache, who bears a striking resemblance to one of the authors, Val Napoleon, narrates the story of Sap-Was-Te, a Nehiyaw woman suspected of becoming a Wetiko—a being believed to pose a grave threat to the community. Mikomosis, following Cree legal traditions, ends Sap-Was-Te’s life to protect the people. Big Headache then convenes a council of Indigenous lawyers and Elders to analyze the case and determine how Mikomosis would have been judged under Cree law.
Exploring Justice Through Indigenous Perspectives
The novel challenges readers to reflect on critical legal and ethical questions: Did Mikomosis and his community act in accordance with Cree legal obligations? Were Sap-Was-Te’s rights to care and recovery adequately considered? And most importantly, was due process followed under Cree law before her fate was sealed?
By delving into these questions, Mikomosis and the Wetiko fosters meaningful discussions about the application of Indigenous legal traditions and their place in modern society. It encourages readers to view the case through an Indigenous legal lens rather than imposing Western legal frameworks.
A Powerful Teaching Tool
As an educational resource, the graphic novel effectively introduces historical and contemporary debates surrounding Indigenous law. Many students, especially those unfamiliar with Indigenous legal systems, will find the visual storytelling an accessible and impactful way to engage with these complex issues.
The novel also highlights the struggles Indigenous peoples have faced within the Canadian legal system. Mainstream media and dominant narratives have often marginalized Indigenous perspectives, but Mikomosis and the Wetiko amplifies them, offering both insight and challenge to non-Indigenous readers.
The Visual and Narrative Impact
The book’s effectiveness stems from its seamless blend of text and imagery. The artwork, crafted by Jim Henshaw, Ken Steacy, Simon Roy, and Janine Johnston, vividly portrays the Nehiyaw experience in the late 19th century, making the story more immersive and emotionally resonant. Different artistic styles—thick borders for past events, jagged edges for magical elements, and borderless frames for present-day discussions—help guide the reader through the novel’s layered storytelling.
Although the Trickster narrator shapes the narrative’s tone and presentation, the book strives for balance. Some characters, such as colonial officials, are depicted with broad, unsympathetic strokes, while Indigenous figures retain individuality and nuance. This framing encourages readers to critically examine historical biases and question dominant historical narratives.
One particularly compelling aspect of the novel is its exploration of the shortcomings within both Indigenous and colonial legal systems. For instance, the narrative points out that while Sap-Was-Te’s case was decided under Cree law, proper legal protocols—such as consulting multiple Elders—were not fully followed. This nuance challenges readers to consider both the strengths and the imperfections of all legal systems.
Conclusion: A Must-Read for Those Interested in Indigenous Law
By merging scholarly research with compelling visual storytelling, Mikomosis and the Wetiko offers an engaging and thought-provoking approach to understanding Indigenous law. The novel is an invaluable resource for history and law students, educators, and anyone interested in Indigenous justice.
As Big Headache reminds us, engaging with Indigenous law is not just an academic exercise—it’s a responsibility. Mikomosis and the Wetiko invites readers to actively participate in this engagement and challenge preconceived notions of justice, law, and history.
Bibliography
Friedland, H. L. “The Wetiko (windigo) legal principles: Responding to harmful people in Cree, Anishinabek and Saulteaux societies — past, present and future uses, with a focus on contemporary violence and child victimization concerns”. LLM Dissertation. University of Alberta, 2009.
Napoleon, Val, Jim Henshaw, Ken Steacy, Janine Johnston, and Simon Roy. Mikomosis and the Wetiko. Victoria, BC: the University of Victoria, Indigenous Law Research Clinic, 2013.
