B.C. Leaders Meet First Nations to Address Cowichan Title Ruling

Officials from British Columbia and First Nations leaders are currently engaged in two days of discussions aimed at improving government-to-government relationships. The meetings, taking place in Vancouver, come in response to a significant ruling by the B.C. Supreme Court regarding Aboriginal title in the Cowichan area.

Land Title Ruling Sparks Tension

The court’s decision in August determined that the Cowichan Tribes hold Aboriginal title over approximately 750 acres along the Fraser River. The ruling declared existing titles held by the Crown and municipal entities as defective and invalid. Furthermore, it stated that the government’s issuance of private titles on this land constituted an unjustifiable infringement of Cowichan rights.

In light of this ruling, Premier David Eby emphasized the need for clarification from the Court of Appeal. He noted that the implications of this decision extend beyond the immediate landowners in Richmond, highlighting a broader historical context of Indigenous displacement in the province.

The provincial government, along with the city of Richmond and other defendants, has initiated an appeal against the ruling, which raises significant concerns regarding the future of private land ownership, not just in Cowichan but throughout British Columbia.

Calls for Dialogue and Reconciliation

During a news conference, Chief Shana Thomas of the First Nations Summit, who also represents the Cowichan Nation, addressed the concerns surrounding private land ownership. She described the reactions from some officials as “fearmongering” and stated that the focus should be on the responsibilities of the provincial and federal governments.

“It’s not the individual property owner. It is the Crown’s duty,” she said, emphasizing the need for reconciliation regarding Aboriginal title.

Chief Thomas pointed out that the Cowichan leadership did not seek to invalidate private titles on the disputed land. She criticized public statements made by Premier Eby and Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie as “misleading” and “deliberately inflammatory,” asserting that the court’s ruling does not negate public property rights.

As the gathering progresses, over 1,300 participants have registered, representing more than 200 First Nations and all provincial ministries. The meetings are designed to foster an environment of dialogue, aiming to strengthen the relationships between the province and Indigenous communities.

This report was initially published on November 4, 2025, by The Canadian Press.