LETTER – City can’t legally deny rental request for upcoming OneBC event

The City of Kamloops respectfully acknowledges that we are on the traditional and unceded territory of Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc, and we recognize the importance of our relationship as we work together toward truth, respect, and meaningful reconciliation.

We are aware of an upcoming event at a municipally owned facility in Kamloops booked by OneBC with MLA Dallas Brodie.

We recognize that this event has and will generate concern within our community, particularly given the broader context of ongoing public discourse related to reconciliation, Indigenous rights, and residential school denialism.

The City of Kamloops is unequivocal in its position. We do not support or condone residential school denialism, anti Indigenous racism, or any form of hate speech. These perspectives are harmful, undermine reconciliation, and stand in direct opposition to the values of respect, inclusion, and truth that we are committed to upholding as a municipality.

At the same time, the City is obligated to operate within the legal framework that governs public facilities. The City cannot deny this rental request on the basis of the past rhetoric or views associated with the organizers. Doing so would expose the City to a Charter challenge that we would not succeed in defending.

Given these legal constraints, and the significant risk that such a challenge could further amplify harmful narratives and cause additional harm to those impacted, the City is not in a position to refuse the booking.

It is important to understand that the use of a City facility does not imply endorsement. The views expressed at this event are those of the organizers and speakers alone. They do not reflect the values or positions of the City of Kamloops.

The City is taking all appropriate steps to help ensure that the event, and any related demonstrations, proceed safely, and that the well being of all participants and community members is prioritized.

We also wish to acknowledge the impact that situations such as this have on Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc, residential school survivors, their families, and Indigenous communities more broadly. Residential school denialism is not an abstract issue; it perpetuates real and ongoing harm. The City recognizes this and remains committed to standing against denialism and supporting truth based dialogue.

Reconciliation is not a single action or event. It is an ongoing responsibility that requires honesty about our shared history, a willingness to listen, and a sustained commitment to building respectful relationships. The City of Kamloops affirms its continued commitment to this work, including ongoing partnerships with Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc and supporting initiatives that advance understanding, equity, reconciliation, and inclusion.

The City of Kamloops remains firm in its commitment to truth, respect, and reconciliation. We encourage all residents to seek accurate information, engage respectfully, and continue working together toward a community grounded in truth, empathy, understanding, and shared responsibility.

THE CITY OF KAMLOOPS and KAMLOOPS CITY COUNCIL

Editor’s Note: The OneBC ‘Backbone of B.C. Tour’ event is scheduled for the Kia Lounge from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 7. The stated topics are “OneBC platform, the state of UNDRIP and defending private & Crown property, affordability, local decision-making, the future of B.C,’s backbone communities, and Q&A.”