UBCIC Statement
November 14, 2019
((Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səl̓ilwətaʔɬ/sel̓ílwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C. – November 14, 2019) The Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) was deeply disappointed to learn today that there are reports of historic sexual violence carried out by Grand Chief Ed John, and criminal charges have been laid based on incidents that are reported to have occurred in 1974. The UBCIC does not have a direct employment relationship with Grand Chief Ed John.
The UBCIC acknowledges the depth, emotion and complexity of the issue of sexual assault and harassment, violence against Indigenous women, healing, and women’s safety. The UBCIC supports victims of sexual abuse to come forward and have reports addressed through the proper forums and channels, based on what is most supportive and protective of the rights of women and girls to safety. The UBCIC has consistently worked with like-minded organizations to take action and bring attention to the critical and devastating issue of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people, including joining the call for a National Inquiry. Further, the UBCIC Chiefs Council has devoted substantial time and advocacy to addressing sexualized violence against Indigenous women and girls, and acknowledges that at the heart of the issue is the need to address sexual assault, violence and healing in our communities and organizations.
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Media inquiries:
Andrea Glickman, Union of BC Indian Chiefs
Phone: 604-842-2977 or [email protected]
UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.
For more information please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca