Faultlines of Title — Richmond, Quebec, and the Question of Civic Consent

🪶 When land title is declared without civic dialogue, reconciliation becomes rupture.

This page marks a national faultline in Canada’s legal choreography — where Indigenous title rulings are reshaping civic landscapes, often without public consultation or homeowner protection.

📜 Richmond: The Cowichan Ruling

• In August 2025, the BC Supreme Court granted Aboriginal title to the Cowichan Tribes over 5.7 square kilometers in Richmond, BC — including fee simple lands.
• Homeowners were not notified until October 2025, sparking outrage and confusion.
• Mortgage renewals have been disrupted, with banks refusing to proceed due to title uncertainty.
• The Province, City of Richmond, and federal government are appealing the ruling, citing legal ambiguity and civic risk.

⚠️ Civic Impact

• Transparency Failure: Residents were excluded from the legal process.
• Financial Instability: Property owners face mortgage refusals and title confusion.
• Public Distrust: The ruling has unintentionally fueled resentment toward Indigenous communities.
• Legal Complexity: The coexistence of Aboriginal title and private ownership remains unclear.

🌍 Quebec: The Kitigan Zibi Claim

• In October 2025, the Kitigan Zibi Anishinābeg First Nation filed a sweeping land title claim in Quebec Superior Court, covering eight regions including Gatineau Park, islands in the Ottawa River, and wildlife reserves.
• The claim includes a $5 billion lawsuit against the Quebec and Canadian governments, and Hydro-Québec, citing violations of constitutionally protected rights.
• Chief Jean-Guy Whiteduck emphasized the need for Indigenous control over water, wildlife, and forestry — framing the claim as a step toward meaningful reconciliation.

🖋️ Petition for Clarity

If you believe reconciliation must include dialogue, consent, and civic transparency, consider signing the petition at endlandgrabs.ca. It calls for:

• Public consultation before land title rulings.
• Protection for homeowners and mortgage holders.
• A pause on rulings that destabilize civic trust.