Thank You for Supporting PHARA — Now Let’s Take This Province-Wide
To our members and dock owners:
Thank you for your generous support of our legal challenge to the BC government’s DRIPA legislation. Your commitment helped us take a stand—but the fight is far from over.
We’re entering a new phase. One that urgently requires province-wide awareness and support. Our small Sunshine Coast community cannot carry this burden alone.
What’s Happening?
Last year, the BC government tried to amend the Land Act to give First Nations veto power over Crown land decisions—They were supposed to consult, but we, as well as others that were listed for consultation, were not given the chance. Thanks to public pressure, that attempt was halted. But it’s now back under a new name: DRIPA (Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act).
Quietly, the government is negotiating with the shíshálh Nation to grant exclusive decision-making power and recognize Aboriginal title over Crown lands—starting on the Sunshine Coast.
This is no longer just about one community.
It’s about the future of land use, governance, and democratic rights across all of British Columbia.
PHARA’s Position
We strongly support reconciliation and Indigenous rights, but it must be done transparently, democratically, and within Canada’s Constitution.
That’s why PHARA has filed a petition in the BC Supreme Court—because we believe the current approach under DRIPA is unconstitutional and undermines the public interest.
We’ve Made Progress
PHARA already scored a major victory:
The government rescinded an Order in Council that would have given the shíshálh Nation joint veto power over dock approvals on the Sunshine Coast.
But our legal challenge needs ongoing public support and funding to continue.
Why This Matters to You
What’s happening here could happen anywhere in BC.
If DRIPA proceeds unchecked:
• Communities across the province could lose input on land use decisions.
• Public lands could be controlled by unelected bodies with no transparency or accountability.
• The foundational principles of open government and the rule of law will be at risk.
• Your private property may also be in jeopardy.
How You Can Help
Share this message with friends, family, and networks across BC
Support our legal challenge by donating to our GoFundMe campaign
Stay informed by learning more about PHARA’s case here
This is About All of Us
PHARA is standing up for your rights, your land, and your voice in BC’s democracy. But we can’t do it without your help.
The future of land use decisions in British Columbia is at stake. Please stand with us.
The Board
Pender Harbour and Area Residents Association (PHARA)