The feather is significant on many cultures. In my Gitxsan culture, down is spread as an honourary gesture for guests before ceremony. Dancers dance with down in their head dress so that it spreads as the song is sung and the dancers dance. To witness this is quite spectacular as the air is filled with down and it slowly settles on honoured guests is like a blessing. 

In other cultures, the feather symbolizes respect, communication, healing, and embracing. To be in receipt of a feather is to be acknowledged for your work that benefits your community. 

This feather represents the eagle feather. The eagle is a messenger that is able to bring messages from beyond the veil. To see an eagle soaring high above is to be in receipt of such message.