The Site C Dam’s Dubious Legacy Lives On

In northeastern British Columbia, a contentious chapter in the province’s history continues to unfold. The naming of the Site C dam after former Premier John Horgan has sparked widespread debate and outrage among those who have long fought against the project. While some might see this move as a gesture of goodwill towards Indigenous communities, it only serves to highlight the complexities and shortcomings of B.C.’s relationship with its First Nations.

The controversy surrounding the Site C dam is nothing new – in fact, it’s a stark reminder of the province’s checkered past when it comes to respecting Indigenous rights and preserving the natural environment. The decision to name the dam after Horgan, who once opposed the project before eventually supporting its completion, seems almost laughable given the circumstances.

Chief Roland Willson of the West Moberly First Nation has described the naming of Nááchę mege (Dreamer Lake) as “disrespectful” to the elders, prophets, and dreamers whose gravesites are now submerged beneath the reservoir. The irony is not lost on those who have been fighting against this project for years – that a name meant to honor Indigenous culture and traditions would be affixed to a site where centuries-old burial grounds were destroyed.

The province’s efforts to acknowledge and compensate First Nations for their losses, while commendable, fall short of addressing the deeper wounds inflicted by projects like Site C. Only 13 affected First Nations were invited to participate in naming discussions – West Moberly chose not to participate – raising questions about whose voices are being heard and amplified.

Some might argue that this is a small step towards reconciliation, but it’s a hollow gesture when the underlying issues remain unaddressed. Christy Clark’s remarks on honoring people who’ve served the province ring particularly hollow given her own role in greenlighting construction back in 2014. Andrew Weaver’s assertion that Horgan would be “uncomfortable” with this decision speaks volumes about the character of a man who was once seen as a champion for environmental causes.

As B.C.’s government moves forward, it’s essential to acknowledge the lessons of history and confront the ongoing legacies of colonialism and dispossession. Naming a dam after someone who had reservations about its construction is not a badge of honor; rather, it’s a reminder that true progress requires more than just words – it demands meaningful action and a genuine commitment to redressing historical injustices.

In the coming weeks and months, we’ll be watching closely as B.C.’s government grapples with the implications of this decision. Will they use this opportunity to confront the harder questions about Indigenous rights and environmental stewardship? Or will they opt for a cosmetic solution that glosses over the underlying issues?

The Site C dam’s dubious legacy will continue to haunt British Columbia until true reconciliation becomes more than just a slogan.