B.C. Supreme Court Grants Cowichan Tribes Title to Historic Richmond Lands and Fishing Rights

On August 7, 2025, the Supreme Court of British Columbia delivered a landmark ruling recognizing the Aboriginal title of the Cowichan Tribes (part of the Quw’utsun Nation) over approximately 1,846 acres on Lulu Island—specifically the traditional Tl’uqtinus village lands in Richmond—and affirming their right to fish the south arm of the Fraser River for food. After 513 days in court, Justice Young’s 863-page judgment declared that existing fee simple titles—held by the federal and provincial governments, the City of Richmond, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, and others—are invalid where they unjustifiably infringe on Cowichan title. The court has provided an 18-month transitional period to allow for orderly negotiations in line with the honour of the Crown.

Supporters of the decision celebrated it as a significant step toward reconciliation and justice. Representatives of the Quw’utsun Nation offered heartfelt thanks to the generations of leaders who led the effort, honoring their legacy and emphasizing the importance of the ruling for future generations. Conversely, the Musqueam First Nation—one of the defendants—strongly rejected the judgment. Chief Wayne Sparrow criticized the court for sidelining traditional governance and oral histories and argued that the ruling undermines established protocols and shared stewardship among Coast Salish nations. The Musqueam leadership remains committed to defending their territorial rights and is reviewing the decision to determine its next steps.

Political reactions have been equally divided. OneBC leader Dallas Brodie condemned the ruling as a threat to private property rights, calling it “a racist, two-tiered constitutional framework” and urged the provincial government to appeal and protect property security for all British Columbians. Opposition leader John Rustad echoed the sentiment, asserting that Indigenous title and private property rights cannot coexist and must be overturned . Meanwhile, Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of clear private property titles for economic stability and said the government is reviewing the decision, exploring a negotiated resolution, and considering whether to appeal.