In a recent controversy, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) has called for the dismissal of a B.C. Conservative staff member following inflammatory remarks about the Survivors’ flag. This flag honors those affected by residential schools in Canada. The incident unfolded shortly before National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is observed on September 30 each year.
Controversial Comments Spark Outrage
On September 25, 2025, several MLAs, including those from the NDP, Conservative, and Green parties, raised the Survivors’ flag at the B.C. Legislature in Victoria. However, the following day, communications staffer Lindsay Shepherd made derogatory comments on social media. She referred to the Survivors’ flag as a “disgrace” and labelled the Orange Shirt as a “fake flag,” adding that it perpetuated misconceptions about Canadian history.
- Shepherd’s comments triggered widespread backlash from various political leaders.
- She later deleted her post shortly after facing criticism.
- Opposition leaders, including NDP MLA Rohini Arora, condemned her statements as promoting anti-Indigenous sentiment.
Calls for Action from B.C. Leaders
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, president of the UBCIC, expressed shock over the comments, urging Conservative leader John Rustad to fire Shepherd. He characterized the remarks as a sign of “ignorance” and “racism.”
Former B.C. Green MLA Adam Olsen also criticized the comments, referring to them as “vile” and indicative of toxic behavior that questions Indigenous history. He expressed concern over Rustad’s previous remarks on Indigenous rights and property ownership.
Party Responses
Rustad and Shepherd have not publicly commented on the situation. Meanwhile, Conservative MLA Scott McInnis, responsible for Indigenous relations, affirmed his support for residential school survivors. He mentioned the importance of truth and reconciliation for future generations.
In recent years, Indigenous communities and the federal government have addressed the traumatic legacy of residential schools. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has documented over 4,100 children’s deaths associated with these schools, most due to malnourishment and disease. Recent findings from the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation suggested the presence of 215 potential burial sites, emphasizing the need for respectful recognition of these events.
Future Implications
The fallout from Shepherd’s comments could have lasting effects on the B.C. Conservative Party. The party’s previous actions, such as expelling MLA Dallas Brodie for similar statements, indicate internal tensions surrounding Indigenous issues.
As discussions continue, the B.C. government must navigate the complexities of Indigenous reconciliation while addressing the growing backlash against harmful rhetoric. The call for accountability remains critical in fostering a more inclusive dialogue in British Columbia.
