First Nations Leadership Council Celebrates Joan Phillip Being Sworn in as Member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

July 28, 2023

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.)
The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) proudly extends its heartfelt congratulations to Joan Phillip, a distinguished member of Penticton Indian Band from Tsleil-Waututh, and distinguished leader and climate activist, as she is sworn in as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia (MLA) for Vancouver Mount-Pleasant. Joan succeeds outgoing MLA Melanie Mark who is Nisga’a, Gtixsan, Cree and Ojibway. Phillip’s appointment represents another pivotal milestone in our ongoing fight for representation of First Nations voices in the highest echelons of governance.

Phillip’s historic achievement as the second First Nations woman to be sworn in as an MLA in British Columbia is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and commitment to advancing the rights and interests of First Nations in her own community and beyond. The FNLC firmly believes that her presence in the Legislative Assembly will contribute immensely to advancing our collective goals and creating a more inclusive, just, and equitable society.
Cheryl Casimer, Political Executive of the First Nations Summit