FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 7, 2025
Campbell River, Liǧwiłdax̌w Territory – Wei Wai Kum First Nation
Wei Wai Kum First Nation Calls for Immediate Removal of Aaron Gunn as Conservative Candidate for North Island–Powell River
Wei Wai Kum First Nation Chief Councillor Chris Roberts is calling on the Conservative Party of Canada to immediately withdraw Aaron Gunn as its candidate for the North Island–Powell River riding in the upcoming federal election.
There is a compelling need to speak out. Mr. Gunn’s public statements—dismissing the experiences of Residential School Survivors and denying the genocidal impacts of colonial institutions—are not only deeply offensive, but fundamentally incompatible with truth, accountability, and reconciliation. Attempts to minimize, question, or “walk back” these statements ignore the ongoing harms Indigenous peoples in Canada continue to face. Genocide, as defined by the United Nations, includes acts intended to destroy a group in whole or in part—through forced child removal, cultural erasure, systemic violence, and deliberate neglect. These are not relics of the past; they are lived realities that continue to shape our communities today.
To represent this region—particularly one home to so many vibrant First Nation communities—requires humility, honesty, and a steadfast commitment to truth and justice. Mr. Gunn hasn’t demonstrated these qualities.
“Mr. Gunn’s remarks from years ago were not just careless—they seem to reflect his true beliefs and a deep misunderstanding of the challenges Indigenous communities continue to face,” said Chief Councillor Roberts. “His past statements deny the truth of Indigenous experience and demonstrate why he is not the right person to represent this region. Residential school trauma is real. Our communities and members are still trying to cope with the multi-generational trauma. It is important for everyone to work together on reconciliation.”
True reconciliation is not about financial transactions—it’s about building meaningful, respectful relationships. Indigenous Nations must work collaboratively with governments to plan the future of our territories in a way that brings certainty, respect, and mutual benefit. There are no shortcuts.
We encourage everyone in positions of influence to reflect on the impact their support has on Indigenous communities and on the goals of reconciliation. “Mr. Gunn’s candidacy sends a dangerous and damaging message—it dismisses Survivors, disrespects the pursuit of truth and justice, and signals that Indigenous voices don’t matter,” said Chief Councillor Roberts.
“Keeping Mr. Gunn on the ballot isn’t just insensitive—it’s a direct affront to everyone working toward real reconciliation. We are not commenting on any specific political party; each party makes its own choices about candidates. However, Residential School denial and anti-reconciliation rhetoric are wrong, no matter what party they are coming from.”
Wei Wai Kum is committed to strengthening this region through respectful partnership. Our Nations are foundational to the North Island community and its economy, and we’re working every day to build a stronger future—not a weaker one.
Reconciliation is not a slogan. It demands partnership, recognition of rights and title, and long-term collaboration grounded in truth. There are no shortcuts.
For these reasons, we call on the Conservative Party of Canada to immediately remove Mr. Gunn as a candidate. We urge all parties and candidates to reflect on the power of their words, the values they represent, and the communities they seek to serve.
Chief Councillor Chris Roberts
Wei Wai Kum First Nation
