Eby To Be Sworn In As Premier November 18

BC’s new premier will be sworn in next week - not at Government House - but at the Musqueam Community Centre.

David Eby will be sworn in as premier November 18 at the Musqueam Community Centre, bucking the tradition of incoming premiers being sworn in at Government House.

“I am excited to be taking this important step close to home where my family and the people who have always supported me live,” Eby said Tuesday in a statement.

Eby said he’s grateful to Chief Wayne Sparrow, the Musqueam councillors and the Musqueam people for hosting the ceremony in their community.

“Because of their efforts, this event will be a powerful symbol of a shared vision for a province that delivers results for all British Columbians, in close partnership with Indigenous Peoples,” he said.

Sparrow said Eby’s decision to be sworn in at the Musqueam First Nation instead of Government House, which is a symbol of colonialism for many Indigenous people, is an indication he’s serious about taking action to address Indigenous reconciliation. “Actions are more than words with reconciliation,” Sparrow said. “I hope it’s not just a PR move.”

Eby will take the oath of office at 10 a.m. November 18 in front of Lt.-Gov. Janet Austin at the community centre on the Musqueam First Nation, which is near the University of B.C. campus.