A significant gathering is taking place in British Columbia as provincial authorities and First Nations leaders meet for two days to address tensions arising from a recent court ruling on Aboriginal title.
The 10th B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering is underway, with over 1,300 meetings scheduled to enhance government-to-government relationships and seek a way forward. The relationship between the parties has been strained following a ruling by a B.C. Supreme Court judge in August, which granted the Cowichan Tribes Aboriginal title to approximately 750 acres along the Fraser River while deeming existing Crown and city titles on the land as invalid.
Premier David Eby emphasized the need for clarity from the Court of Appeal, highlighting that the issue extends beyond the affected land in Richmond to a broader historical context of Indigenous displacement in the province.
The province, along with Richmond and other defendants, is appealing the court’s decision amid concerns about its potential impact on private land ownership, not only in the Cowichan region but also elsewhere.
Chief Shana Thomas, representing the First Nations Summit and the Cowichan Nation, addressed the issue of private land ownership, emphasizing the responsibility of the government to engage in dialogue and reconcile Aboriginal title with Crown assertions.
The Cowichan Nation clarified that they did not seek to invalidate private titles on the land, expressing disappointment in the public discourse surrounding the case. They emphasized the importance of open dialogue and reconciliation moving forward.
With over 1,300 participants registered, including representatives from more than 200 First Nations and various provincial ministries, this gathering aims to foster constructive discussions and pave the way for improved relationships and understanding.