A commentary by a Quadra Island resident who holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Washington.

I have read avidly the coverage and commentary on the recent Cowichan case on Aboriginal title. But there is one aspect of this case that I have not seen covered in the media – it’s the story of how we got here in the first place.

If we are serious about the truth and reconciliation process, we must start with the truth.

In 1853, colonial governor James Douglas visited the Cowichan, telling them in person that “Her Majesty the Queen had given me a special charge, to treat them with justice and humanity and to protect them … so long as they remained at peace with the settlements.”

Douglas had been specifically instructed by British authorities “to consider the natives as the rightful possessors” of their villages, and this was official colonial policy, which Douglas was charged with administering.

The Cowichan kept their side of the bargain, but Douglas did not keep his.

Even though Douglas had settled other Indigenous land claims fairly and honourably, even though Douglas knew the Cowichan wished to negotiate over their lands, even though Douglas was........

© Times Colonist