B.C. policies that do not give First Nations burial grounds the same protections as cemeteries are discriminatory and out of date, says Tseycum Chief Vern Jacks.
Jacks and other local aboriginal leaders have been fighting to protect a small island in Ganges Harbour where human remains and burial cairns were found in 2006.
Because the burial site dates from before 1846, it is managed under the Heritage Conservation Act — not the Cremation, Interment and Funeral Services Act, which offers greater protection.
“The laws are racist,” Jacks said. “We’re tired of being ignored and we’re tired of being disrespected.”
Sarah Petrescu – Victoria Times Colonist – July 6, 2014.
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