Our thoughts are with Amshen, Joan Phillip as she recovers in hospital from a serious illness. Long before she became a politician, Joan was an organizer, activist and leader in the Red Power movement, part of the continent-wide struggle for Indigenous self-determination.

“The goal is, we just want to be alive,” Joan said in her sister Lee Maracle’s 1980 autobiographical book Bobbi Lee, Indian Rebel. “It's a fight that's holistic. It's about loving ourselves. Loving our land, loving the people. This is what we're fighting for.”

For decades, she and her husband Stewart Phillip showed up anywhere grassroots people were fighting for justice in B.C. It’s no surprise that when Premier David Eby tried to whip his caucus to vote for a bill to roll back the province’s commitment to human rights, Joan refused.

We wish Joan a swift and full recovery so she can bring her voice back to the legislature.

This week we also want to pay tribute to the incomparable Jane Devonshire, who is stepping back after 14 years as a Dogwood volunteer. Jane has played a vital role behind the scenes, meeting with countless elected officials, launching new projects and mentoring up-and-coming leaders.

If you live on the South Island, odds are you’ll have seen Jane in action, chatting to folks at a community event or handing out information at a rally. Always warm and calm, Jane brings deep knowledge and a talent for connecting and bringing people together.

Jane’s unstoppable energy, captivating storytelling and positive approach have inspired countless people to see their own power and join the movement to build a better future. Like other matriarchs up and down the coast, Jane leads with a fierce but kind heart.

B.C. is a better place thanks to Jane’s passion, perseverance and leadership. We are forever grateful for her dedication to Dogwood and our shared movements, and wish her all the best in her continuing roles in the community and as a grandma!