Support Kwantlen First Nation reform

The Kwantlen First Nation is in a battle with its hereditary chief. The Hereditary Chief, Marilyn Gabriel is suing band members in order to assert her right to rule the band for life. Band members want change and to choose their own leaders. Under Marilyn Gabriel's rule violence and intimidation have become accepted on reserve, evictions have taken place, homes demolished, reserve land sold off, and the band has fallen further and further behind its successful neighbours.

Band members pleaded for reform, and went through 3 years of consultations to work out a new governance code. But when it was done, Marilyn Gabriel kept it from the people, and quietly dropped the subject. By the fall of 2022, band members had had enough, and a general assembly was called to remove Marilyn Gabriel, and elect 3 new councillors, who were tasked with bringing in a new governance code.

In a February 14th, 2023 vote, more than 90% of voters expressed their support for these changes. In response, Marilyn sued the new council members and got the courts to shut down the vote. The council members are now working hard to fight back as we approach a summer court date. In the meantime, we are cut off from all band funds - even as Marilyn uses god knows how much on expensive lawyers to battle us.

Our only way to level the playing field is through open communication. And that's where we need your support. We have started this GoFundMe to help cover some of the costs of our communications, including web hosting, Google Drive, and email campaigns expenses. Any help you can provide is a huge step towards putting power back in the people's hands.