The Tsilhqot’in National Government says it approves of New Westminster City Council’s decision to remove a statue of B.C.’s first chief justice, Matthew Begbie, from its provincial courthouse.
Judge Begbie convicted six Tsilhqot’in War Chiefs of murder and sentenced them to death for their involvement in what came to be known at the Chilcotin War in 1864.
Both the provincial and federal governments have since exonerated the six War Chiefs of any crime or wrongdoing.
Tsilhqot’in National Government Tribal Chair Chief Joe Alphonse says Begbie represents a legacy of betrayal, pain, and tragedy
for his people.
The TNG says removing the statue allows for healing and reconciliation to take place for Tsilhqot’in communities and reflects an era of cultural understanding and appreciation for Indigenous peoples.
Alphonse says removing his statue doesn’t remove Begbie from history, but recognizes their history and experience as Indigenous peoples.
New Westminster City Council voted 4-2 Monday night to remove the statue.
