Dear Editor:
A meeting was called in the early ’90s at the Tiddlycove church (St. Francis-in-the-Wood) in West Vancouver. Present were: His Honour Alfred John Scow (the first Aboriginal legally trained judge appointed to the B.C. provincial court), Chief Leonard George of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, Joe Whitehead, publisher of the Journal of Commerce and myself.
It was clear from the start, that Chief Leonard’s heart and concern was with and for his people. He disliked the “Indian Act” and wanted to create a project of self-sufficiency, something to instill pride of achievement in his people. His idea was a residential development called: “The Raven Woods” on First Nations’ land.
His question was: How to do it properly in all respects? He was aware, that a land lease with the “band” would be problematic. He also said: “What is a band, anyways?” He was not only a visionary, but also had a sense of humour. The idea was floated that a land lease with the federal government would be much more palatable with a potential buyer.
Leonard, to his credit, was open to any good ideas. As a construction man, I could also assist him in follow-up problems. And so “Raven Woods” was born and has certainly fulfilled Leonard’s dream for his people. When our time came for downsizing nine years ago, my wife and I also bought at Raven Woods and are happy we did.
Erich Kunz
North Vancouver
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