Misinformation has erupted in the Lower Mainland following a B.C. Supreme Court ruling on August 7 that affirmed Cowichan Tribes’ Aboriginal rights and title over certain lands in Richmond. The court declared that the titles held by the Crown and the city are invalid and that private land grants by the government infringe on Cowichan Tribes’ rights.
In the aftermath, the City of North Vancouver has issued warnings about a fraudulent letter claiming that the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and səlilwətaɬ nations are initiating legal actions concerning properties in the area. The city confirmed that the letter is fake and advised recipients to ignore it.
The Quw’utsun Nation responded to political leaders, including Premier David Eby, by branding their statements as “misleading” and emphasizing that the ruling does not affect private property ownership. Eby announced plans to seek a stay on the ruling’s implementation.
Public interest in the ruling is high, with a recent Angus Reid Institute poll showing over half of British Columbians are closely following the issue. The survey indicated a notable divide in public opinion based on political and property ownership lines, reflecting fears that have been exacerbated by statements from political figures. The Quw’utsun Nation stressed their commitment to fostering reconciliation rather than deepening divisions.
