We are disappointed that the Métis Nation British Columbia has chosen to press beyond our previously agreed joint statement and apology. On Friday, BCIT’s President apologized both verbally and in a letter to Métis Nation BC leadership, and agreed to co-issue today’s joint apology statement — with content agreed by both parties yesterday — announcing this unfortunate and regretful situation publicly.
We again sincerely apologize for this incident and related harm or hurt to the Métis Nation and Métis people.
While there is ongoing opportunity for learning and advancement, BCIT’s Indigenous Initiatives team and our community have embraced and made significant progress on a journey to awareness and understanding around truth, Indigenization and Reconciliation. We are committed to continuing on this inclusive and important path.
The BCIT employee who is the subject of the Métis Nation’s concern has accepted responsibility, acknowledged writing and sending the email, and has apologized to Métis Nation British Columbia and BCIT. We cannot disclose any details or further information regarding our communications or interaction with this employee due to privacy considerations and requirements.
We hope to continue to work with all Indigenous representatives and people to support all learners, including Indigenous and Métis, and to deliver on our provincial mandate to provide an applied education and thereby ensure a skilled workforce for B.C.’s key sectors and employers.