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OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON – John van Dongen, Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations, is attending a ceremony in Olympia, Washington, today to acknowledge the historic injustices surrounding the events of the 1884 lynching death of Louie Sam, a 14 year old member of the Sto:lo Nation.
A resolution expressing regret to the Sto:lo First Nation is expected to be tabled in the Washington State Senate at 11:30 a.m. and the State House of Representatives at 1:30 p.m. today.
“I congratulate Washington State and applaud Lieutenant-Governor Brad Owen for his efforts to recognize Louie Sam’s tragic death,” said van Dongen. “British Columbia shares Washington’s recognition of the wrong done to Louie Sam and the failure of proper justice to take place.”
In 1884, a cross-border lynch mob accused Louie Sam of the murder of a shopkeeper, abducted him from authorities, and killed the 14-year old member of the Sto:lo Nation. Subsequent investigations determined that he was not responsible for the murder.
“In order to promote healing, it is important to come to terms and acknowledge historical wrongs, as in the case of Louie Sam,” said van Dongen. “Although these events may have taken place long ago, it’s our moral duty to recognize these injustices so that Aboriginal people can fully participate in the great future we all have in British Columbia.”
Under the guidance of Premier Gordon Campbell and Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Tom Christensen, British Columbia is engaged in the development of a new relationship with First Nations based on mutual respect and the principles of recognition and reconciliation.
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