NDP MLA Joan Phillip (Vancouver-Strathcona) passed away on Friday.
The Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs said in a post on its Facebook: “The family of MLA Joan Phillip, Amshen, is deeply saddened to share that Joan passed away peacefully this afternoon, surrounded by the love of her life, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, her children, grandchildren and family at the age of 74. Joan was a fearless warrior and inspirational leader, and we will miss her dearly. The family asks for privacy at this time, and in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the B.C. Cancer Society.”
Premier David Eby said on X: “British Columbia lost a powerful and respected leader when Joan Amshen Phillip died earlier today. Our caucus and staff are grieving alongside her family and so many others who knew and loved her.”
The BC NDP notes that Joan was a respected Indigenous leader who dedicated her life to fighting for justice, human rights, and the environment.
Her work experience included youth counsellor at Britannia School, education / program director at the Aboriginal Friendship Centre, and lands manager for the Penticton First Nation.
Twice-elected to the BC legislature, she served as the MLA for Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant and Strathcona neighbourhoods from 2022.
BC Conservative Leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay said in a post on X: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Joan Phillip. While we stood on different sides of the political aisle, I always respected Joan’s fierce dedication to her community, her lifelong advocacy, and her unwavering leadership on Indigenous issues. She served the people of Vancouver with determination and conviction.”
She added: “On behalf of the Conservative Party of BC, I send my heartfelt condolences to Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, their family, and all who loved her. Rest in peace, Joan.”
Emily Lowan, Leader of the BC Green Party, said: “I am devastated to learn that Joan Philip (Amshen) has passed away. Joan deeply inspired me from her commitment to Indigenous sovereignty (Native Alliance for Red Power to Oka crisis) and her climate justice activism fighting pipelines on unceded lands. It was an honour to work with Joan in these final years, where she was focused on constructive solutions to serve her community, constituents, and the whole living world. A woman of unparalleled courage and character who always stood for what’s right, no matter the consequences. She leaves a hole as a leader and visionary that will be hard to fill. It’s up to us to honour her memory by continuing her work.”
