2024-12-03

Te Pāti Māori

Debbie Ngarewa-Packer

Rawiri Waititi

Open Letter: UBCIC in Solidarity with the Māori People

Dear Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, Rawiri Waititi and the Māori Party:

On behalf of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs (UBCIC), we extend our unwavering solidarity and support for the Māori people and their Hīkoi opposing the Treaty Principles Bill and advocating for the protection, self-determination and sovereignty and the sanctity of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

The proposed Treaty Principles Bill threatens to redefine the Treaty’s terms without Māori consent and represents a blatant violation of the foundational principles of partnership and respect. These actions echo the systemic injustices that Indigenous peoples worldwide continue to face, undermining efforts toward reconciliation and self-determination. This violation of principles is a stark reminder of the need for respect, accountability, and the fulfillment of treaty obligations.

We stand with you as Indigenous peoples with shared histories of colonization and dispossession. Your journey, crossing the lands of Aotearoa and culminating at Parliament, resonates deeply with our struggles to have our inherent title and rights recognized. The principles of partnership, mutual respect, and self-determination that underpin Te Tiriti o Waitangi are vital to the well-being and sovereignty of Māori communities and serve as an example of Indigenous rights internationally. In fact, the Douglas Treaties on what is now Vancouver Island were modeled after the Treaty of Waitangi.

We are inspired by your courage, resilience, and unity as you have marched to defend your rights and call for meaningful dialogue and recognition. Your leadership, particularly the powerful youth engagement, is a testament to Indigenous communities’ enduring strength and unwavering commitment to justice. This shared commitment to justice empowers us all in our fight and should inspire and motivate you in your journey.

As you defend Te Tiriti o Waitangi, know you are not alone. From our unceded territories in what is now known as the province of British Columbia to the shores of Aotearoa, we join our voices with yours in calling for respect, accountability, and the fulfillment of treaty obligations.

On behalf of the UNION OF BC INDIAN CHIEFS

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President

Chief Don Tom, Vice-President

Chief Marilyn Slett, Secretary-Treasurer

CC: UBCIC Chiefs Council

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