On Friday, June 4, 2021, Island Forest Company Inc. made an apology to the Hereditary and Elected Chiefs of Ditidaht, Pacheedaht, and Huu-ay-aht First Nations. The apology took place on Ditidaht Territory, at the dryland sort.
The apology came in response to the incident that occurred between IFC workers and protesters on TFL 44, located in Ditidaht territory last month.
Ditidaht singers and dancers did a cultural opening, then Ditidaht Elected Chief introduced Shawn Nicholson from IFC. He thanked Shawn for coming and acknowledged that it takes strength and courage to acknowledge and take responsibility for the actions of another individual.
In his apology, Shawn he said he did not condone the actions of some of their employees. The racist statements and aggressive behavior displayed by the contractor’s employees toward protestors was inappropriate and unacceptable. Shawn said if he could take it back, he would, but this was a chance to make it right.
The personal apology was acknowledged and accepted by all three Nations, with each elected chief offering words of thanks and appreciation on behalf of their hereditary leaders.
For the complete apology, please watch the video.
Did Shawn state any action that will be taken against those that made racist statements or acted aggressive etc towards protesters? Or is this an empty apology?
You would have to contact IFC for an official comment, but you can watch the video and hear what Shawn said about the incident.