Calls for the resignation of Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull have escalated in the wake of revelations that his wife distributed a book questioning the harms of residential schools. The incident has sparked outrage in the community, with over 200 people participating in a march outside city hall before a packed council meeting.
Chief Clifford Lebrun of the Lhtako Dene voiced strong opposition to Mayor Paull, stating, “We can no longer work with this mayor and we will not work with the City of Quesnel until [the] issue has been resolved.” The controversy has dealt a significant blow to reconciliation efforts in the city, which had previously made strides towards acknowledging and addressing the injustices faced by Indigenous communities.
The book in question, titled “Grave Error: How the Media Misled Us (and the Truth about Residential Schools),” has stirred heated debate. Its contents, which challenge widely accepted narratives about the impact of residential schools on Indigenous peoples, have been met with condemnation from local Indigenous leaders and city council members alike.
During the council meeting, emotional testimonies were heard from Indigenous elders and survivors, underscoring the deeply personal impacts of residential schools. Chief Lebrun announced that the Lhtako Dene would be suspending their partnerships with the city until further notice.
Mayor Paull’s wife, Pat Morton, addressed the council and expressed regret for any distress caused by her actions. However, she defended her decision to share the book and questioned why concerns were not raised directly with her.
Frances Widdowson, a contributor to the book, also defended its contents at the meeting. However, her remarks were met with criticism from council members, who accused her of spreading misinformation.
Despite mounting pressure, Mayor Paull refused to resign, stating his commitment to the community and his intention to pursue reconciliation efforts. The council has initiated discussions on potential censure and sanctions against the mayor, but there is currently no mechanism in place to force his resignation.
The controversy has underscored the challenges faced in addressing the legacy of residential schools and the ongoing struggle for reconciliation in Quesnel and across Canada.
