The BC SPCA will honour National Truth and Reconciliation Day, in recognition of the history of residential schools in Canada and their impacts on Indigenous Peoples, by closing all its locations on Tuesday, September 30. The Society will also be ‘going quiet’ across all social media channels to respect and create space for Indigenous voices.
“We encourage all BC SPCA staff, volunteers and supporters to take time on this day, and throughout the year, to expand their understanding of Indigenous history, reconciliation, and how it relates to the animal welfare world,” says BC SPCA chief executive officer Craig Daniell. “As an organization, the BC SPCA’s reconciliation journey is ongoing. We are working with Indigenous Peoples across the province to share learnings and to mobilize all communities so animals and people thrive together.”
Daniell explains that animal welfare has traditionally been approached with colonial attitudes of what this work should look like, rather than an understanding or acknowledgement of the connection to animals shared by First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Because of this, many Indigenous communities have been negatively impacted by animal welfare-related laws and efforts. The BC SPCA is committed to creating system change within the sector in partnership with Indigenous knowledge-keepers and groups and to ensuring access to its support and services is culturally safe for all.
Across the province, the BC SPCA has started dialogue with different Indigenous Peoples and First Nation groups to help the Society understand the unique needs and desire for support from differing communities. While these conversations are only just beginning, the relationships and trust already forming has led to more accessible services through the delivery of pet food and supplies for those in need, two communities have created animal welfare bylaws in consultation with Animal Protection Service that truly reflect their values and priorities, youth education and workshops, and collaborative responses to animal protection files which ultimately were resolved positively impacting not only the animals but also the people involved.
In addition to this work within Indigenous communities, the BC SPCA has been engaging with Indigenous Peoples and First Nation groups local to our new capital builds. The intent is to identify, in partnership, a meaningful way to incorporate recognition and to honour the Nation and the land on which the organization cares for animals and provides services.
“This is just the beginning of our reconciliation efforts,” says Daniell. “We understand there is still a lot of work to be done to heal our relationships with Indigenous communities.”
The BC SPCA will resume normal opening hours on Oct. 1, 2025.