Richmond Aboriginal title ruling fueling talks between B.C. and First Nations

The B. C. Supreme Court recently ruled that Cowichan Tribes hold Aboriginal title over nearly eight kilometers of land along the Fraser River, rendering certain Crown and city land titles invalid. This decision has raised concerns among nearly 150 private property owners in the area. Premier David Eby acknowledged these anxieties and called for prompt clarity from the Court of Appeal to safeguard private property rights while addressing long-standing injustices faced by Indigenous communities.

Lyackson First Nation Chief Shana Thomas challenged fear-based messaging, emphasizing that Cowichan Chiefs have repeatedly stated their intention is not to displace anyone. Eby referenced a successful Aboriginal title recognition in Haida Gwaii, where private property rights remained intact, as a precedent for how B. C. can reconcile these issues. The province is currently requesting a stay on the ruling to allow for a thorough review by the Court of Appeal.

During the two-day gathering, over 1,300 government-to-government meetings are planned to facilitate dialogue between the province and First Nations leaders. This landmark ruling highlights the ongoing complexities of land rights and Indigenous title in British Columbia.