The W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council extends our deepest condolences on the passing of John Horgan. His legacy as a leader who dedicated his career to serving the people of British Columbia will be remembered with great respect and gratitude.

Throughout his time as Premier, John Horgan demonstrated a strong commitment to building meaningful relationships with communities across the province. He made a genuine effort to connect with Indigenous Nations, showing a level of openness and willingness to listen that was vital in fostering better understanding and collaboration. His approach was characterized by humility and a deep respect for the diverse voices that make up our province.

We especially acknowledge his unwavering commitment to the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Under his leadership, the Province of British Columbia took historic steps towards reconciliation, including the adoption of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). This landmark legislation laid the groundwork for a new era of government-to-government relationships, one based on mutual respect, recognition of rights, and a shared vision for a better future.

John Horgan’s leadership in advancing UNDRIP and his work to ensure its implementation have set a critical foundation for ongoing reconciliation efforts in British Columbia. His legacy in this area is one of courage, vision, and a steadfast belief in the importance of justice for Indigenous peoples.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this time of loss. We honour his contributions and express our gratitude for the work he did to move our province toward a more just and equitable future. His impact will be felt for generations to come.

W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council