Joan Phillip’s Voice Will Continue to Reverberate in the NDP

British Columbia MLA and Indigenous advocate Joan Phillip passed away on Friday, surrounded by her family, according to the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs. The 74-year-old politician, who represented Vancouver-Strathcona in the provincial legislature, had been battling an unspecified illness for several months. Her death comes amid ongoing political tensions over Indigenous rights legislation. Premier David Eby described Phillip as an “epic fighter” who devoted her life to creating a more just and equitable society. In a statement released shortly after her passing, Eby expressed deep sorrow, saying the province had lost a “powerful and respected leader.” He noted that members of his legislative caucus and staff were mourning alongside her family and supporters. The Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs confirmed that Phillip died peacefully in the afternoon, accompanied by her husband, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, and their children and grandchildren. A message posted by the organization requested donations to the B.C. Cancer Society instead of floral tributes, reflecting the nature of her illness. Earlier in the week, the group had stated that Phillip was hospitalized, bravely fighting against complications from a kidney infection and septic shock. Phillip entered provincial politics in 2023, winning a byelection in Vancouver-Mount Pleasant before securing victory in the subsequent general election in 2024. She was appointed parliamentary secretary for community development and non-profits in November 2024, a role that aligned with her long-standing commitment to Indigenous communities and social justice. Her career prior to entering politics included roles such as youth counsellor at Britannia Secondary School, education and program director at the Aboriginal Friendship Centre, and lands manager for the Penticton Indian Band. These experiences shaped her advocacy work, which focused heavily on Indigenous rights, environmental protection, and human rights. The current political climate in British Columbia has been marked by controversy surrounding the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). This legislation seeks to integrate the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples into provincial laws. However, its implementation has sparked debate, particularly within the B.C. NDP, which holds a slim majority in the legislature. Earlier this year, the government considered proposing a confidence vote to suspend DRIPA, a move that could have triggered another provincial election. According to reports, Premier Eby ultimately decided against proceeding with the motion after consulting with Phillip, who reportedly felt unable to support the suspension of the act. This decision underscored the significance of her voice within the party and the broader political landscape. Attorney General Niki Sharma praised the enduring partnership between Joan and Stewart Phillip, noting the depth of their relationship. Sharma also reflected on the profound impact Joan had on her personal and professional life, stating she would always remember the lessons learned from her. Federal Green Party Leader Elizabeth May mourned the loss of a “matriarch and a champion,” emphasizing the importance of Phillip's contributions to Indigenous causes and environmental advocacy. As news of her passing spread, colleagues and allies across the political spectrum expressed their grief and admiration for her legacy. The B.C. NDP described her as a “respected Indigenous leader who has dedicated her life to fighting for justice, human rights and the environment.” Her absence leaves a void in both the legislative chamber and the broader movement for Indigenous rights. Joan Amshen Phillip’s passing marks the end of a chapter in British Columbia’s political and social history, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to the cause of Indigenous peoples.