(September 1, 2026 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak released the following statement in response to news of the passing of Joan Phillip, Amshen, Member of the Legislative Assembly for BC.
“On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations, I express our deepest condolences to Grand Chief Stewart Phillip and all the family and friends of Joan Phillip, Amshen, MLA. First Nations leadership across Canada is deeply saddened to learn of her passing.
As she starts her spirit journey, we reflect on her many achievements, the thousands of lives she touched, and the generation of leaders Joan inspired.
Beginning in her teens, and throughout her life, Joan used her intellect, vision and caring to push for action on environmental issues, and to improve the well-being of First Nations and all people in British Columbia and Canada.
The impact of her leadership was always felt, no matter what role she took on, the latest being her responsibilities as MLA (Vancouver-Strathcona) and Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-profits of British Columbia.
In recent years, I was blessed to have had wonderful conversations with Joan. The most recent was while she was battling a proposal to suspend BC’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
Joan Phillip Amshen has shown us all how to take on the responsibilities of public service with passion, determination and integrity.
Joan will be dearly missed. I offer my prayers and support to Joan’s family, whom she loved so very much.”
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
For more information, please contact:
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]