The Case of R. v. Barton

Todays Blog Post will highlight the dehumanizing case of Cindy Gladue

Bradley Barton faced charges for the first degree murder of an Indigenous woman, Cindy Gladue, who was discovered, dead, in a hotel room that belonged to the accused. Gladue was 36 and a mother of three children. Barton maintained his innocence. This case shined a light on the injustices endured especially by Indigenous women, including high rates of sexual violence and murder.

The Court acknowledged the implications of racism against Indigenous people in the criminal justice system. Throughout the trial for this case, Gladue was dehumanized and disrespected, such as by having her sexual history admitted as evidence into the trial. These judicial errors raised discriminatory ideas about Indigenous women and also about women in general regarding consent based on sexual history.

The court decision ultimately did not address the level of dehumanization perpetrated against Indigenous women nor did it make strides to ensure that this group never faces such treatment again. The second trial for this case began in 2021, Barton was sentenced for over 10 years

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