MLA for Saanich North and the Islands Rob Botterell said that after the recent decisions involving the Cowichan and Gitxaala nations, misinformation was spread online. 

He said,“Since the recent court decisions involving the Cowichan and Gitxaala Nations, misinformation and fear-mongering have proliferated online and in our communities. False claims that First Nations will take away the land of private property owners have spread widely including by Members of the Legislative Assembly."

Last May, the B.C.’s Human Rights Commissioner reported a dramatic rise in online racial slurs and threats directed at Indigenous people. Chief Cindy Daniels of Cowichan Tribes told CBC that Indigenous people have faced harassment in grocery stores or been subjected to slurs shouted from passing cars. In the House today, the Premier said that, since last week’s Federal government announcement, members of the Musqueam First Nation have received death threats. 

He stated that in an  era when inflammatory rhetoric often spreads quickly online, it is not enough to simply condemn these false claims. British Columbians need clear, strong leadership that explains First Nations rights and reassures people that their interests and property will be protected.

Question Period today, Botterell asked the Province for its plan to combat the harmful rhetoric. 

The Attorney General said she is working on Anti-Indigenous racism plans under the Anti-Racism Act. Under this Act, the government must develop a provincial anti-racism action plan by or before June 1. 

"The BC Greens hope to see those plans sooner rather than later," he added.