A commentary.
In the last week of the 2024 B.C. election campaign, it is clear where the parties stand.
For British Columbians committed to the critical work of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, there is only one choice: the B.C. NDP.
We encourage you to make that choice and help ensure that we can continue to move forward together in creating a more socially just, environmentally sustainable, and economically certain future for all British Columbians.
Why is the NDP the only choice if you support reconciliation?
Reconciliation is one of those foundational cross-cutting issues that must exist beyond the typical patterns of partisanship in our political system.
The reason for this is simple: For reconciliation to take place, each and every one of us must be involved and engaged. It is about building new patterns of strong relations in which we understand the truth of Canada’s history, and advance a shared, prosperous and stable future, where our lands, waters and air are protected.
Reconciliation is also everyone’s business, and necessarily beyond partisanship, because it directly relates to every significant public policy issue that we face.
If we want to unleash economic well-being, we need to resolve issues of title and rights and create certainty on the land base.
If we want to address immense challenges to social well-being, including the toxic drug crisis, we need to support the rebuilding of First Nations communities and governments so they can better support and care for their members so they can lead in lifting individuals out of dire conditions.
If we want to address issues of public safety, we need to systematically advance reforms to the justice system that address the root causes of overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples, and rebuilds trust and effectiveness in policing.
If we want to address climate change, and protect our land, air, and water, we must support the roles of First Nations in stewarding their territories.
The recognition that reconciliation must be beyond partisanship has been upheld in recent years in B.C. — until now.
While there have always been differences between political parties, and ups and downs in the pace and scale of the work being undertaken, over the past few decades there did emerge some cross-party consensus that reconciliation was everyone’s business and everyone’s responsibility.
Important work, like the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, reinforced and highlighted this, engaging all Canadians in addressing the impacts of the residential school system.
This reality was seen most clearly in B.C. in the unanimous adoption of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act in 2019. All parties supported it and recognized it for what it was: an affirmation of the basic human rights of Indigenous peoples.
Fast forward to 2024, and what we see is the crass politicization of reconciliation by the B.C. Conservatives, and rejection of the basic idea that reconciliation is everyone’s business.
Various comments by the B.C. Conservative leader and some other candidates appear to suggest reconciliation is something to be feared — a zero-sum game of winners and losers. Reflecting this, dangerous statements have been made about repealing the Declaration Act.
From our perspective, the Conservatives portray a lack of vision, understanding and courage to lead in the real work of building a stronger British Columbia.
Turning away from the work of true reconciliation is anything but common sense. It will hurt each and every British Columbian.
We acknowledge that the B.C. Green Party is committed to reconciliation, including supporting the work begun and led by the NDP. But that does not change the basic fact that every vote for the Green Party increases the risk of John Rustad and the Conservatives winning.
Nor are the NDP perfect on the issue of reconciliation. But we do know they are committed to continuing the march forward, and doing so in a way that recognizes everyone must be involved.
Because of steps taken in recent years, building on work and advocacy by Indigenous peoples over generations, B.C. is increasingly recognized the world over as a leader in the protection and advancement of Indigenous rights.
The passing of the Declaration Act and the signing of the Gaayhllxid • Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement could have only happened under a government with the courage and conscience to do what is right, even if they had to be the first ones to do it.
Yes, there are growing pains, and much more work to do. But the reality is that the progress is advancing.
So, to say it again, if you support reconciliation, vote NDP.
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip is a prominent First Nations leader and president of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs. Chief Don Tom is the chief of Tsartlip First Nation and vice-president of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs. Chief Marilyn Slett is chief of the Heiltsuk First Nation and secretary-treasurer of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs.
