Full Breakdown
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip Endorses Green Party Leader Emily Lowan
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Endorsement of Emily Lowan
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, a longtime ally of the British Columbia New Democratic Party (NDP), publicly backed Green Party leader Emily Lowan in her bid for the Saanich North and the Islands riding. Phillip posted the endorsement on Lowan’s social-media account, describing his “total honour” in supporting her candidacy.
Political Background
Phillip’s wife, Joan Phillip, was elected as an NDP legislator in 2024 before her death that summer. Historically, Phillip has supported the NDP, citing loyalty to leaders from the Dave Barrett era onward. Earlier this year he clashed with Premier David Eby over the provincial government’s handling of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA), though he later reaffirmed his support for the NDP’s “principles and ideology.”
Official Statements & Responses
In his endorsement statement, Phillip said Lowan’s climate-policy expertise and respect for Indigenous rights were decisive factors. He also reiterated his long-standing confidence in the NDP under Eby, noting personal ties that include Eby’s attendance at Joan Phillip’s funeral. Eby, in a separate campaign remark, emphasized that the province’s success depends on partnership with First Nations and contrasted the Greens’ proposals with Conservative calls to discard DRIPA.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have a real amount, as the B.C. Greens to say exactly what we want, to put forward bold proposals and help be a lightning rod to inspire non-voters, disillusioned and young people to get out and vote.” — Party Leader Emily Lowan
- “David Eby has a good heart, and true genuine friends and allies are forever,” — Grand Chief Stewart
These statements encapsulate the mutual emphasis on Indigenous partnership and climate action that frames the endorsement ahead of the upcoming provincial election.