March 28, 2024

Project on burial site sparks protest

Musqueam band members are demanding that developers of a South Vancouver property cease construction after workers discovered intact human remains.

About 40 band members were protesting Monday underneath the Arthur Laing bridge on SE Marine Drive, holding signs that read “Protect Our Ancestors” and waving the Musqueam flag. In late January, workers uncovered an intact burial on the heritage site and halted construction. “The issue is it’s an old village site and it’s sacred to our community. We just don’t want them to be disturbed anymore than they already have,” said Musqueam Chief Ernest Campbell.

The property is owned by Gary Hackett and is being developed by Lan-Pro Holdings for mixed residential and commercial use. In a statement, the owners emphasized that they are complying with the B.C. Archaeology Branch to preserve the burial remains.

Local news from metronews.ca/vancouver

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