BC Assembly Of First Nations Congratulates BC NDP On Election Victory

The BC Assembly of First Nations has congratulated the BC NDP on their election win.

“This election was marked by a stark division between the parties, and between British Columbians.”, said BCAFN Regional Chief Terry Teegee.

“But one thing BC voters have made clear: they support the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. In many ways the Declaration Act was a ballot question, and the majority of British Columbians see the Declaration Act as a vital tool to advance reconciliation in the province.”

During the next legislature, the Assembly is calling on the BC Government to pursue true reconciliation with First Nations that moves beyond any symbolism and recognizes their inherent rights.

The Assembly says negotiations between the Province and First Nations must resume as soon as possible, with strong cross-ministry mandates that ensures the full application of the Declaration of Indigenous Peoples Act.

It is also calling for a full public inquiry into the deaths of First Nations people at the hands of police.

“The NDP narrowly won a provincial election, despite a significant incumbency advantage and being opposed by a divided and disorganized right,” said Regional Chief Teegee.

“The fearmongering of the BC Conservatives, whose candidates have denied climate change and expressed bigoted and racist ideals underscores the need for this new government to engage with British Columbians to bring communities together. This includes engaging with First Nations and the BC Greens," he concluded.

For more information, visit BC Assembly of First Nations.