April 10, 2025
Comox Valley

K’ómoks First Nation Condemns Aaron Gunn’s Denial of Genocide Against Indigenous Peoples in Canada, and Harmful Comments About the LGBTQIA2S+ Community

K’ómoks First Nation is deeply disturbed by the offensive comments made by Aaron Gunn, the Conservative Party candidate for the North Island–Powell River riding.

Gunn’s comments on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), including one of his claims that “there was no genocide”, not only deny the devastating impacts of residential schools but also outright reject the acknowledgement of the genocide inflicted upon First Nations peoples in Canada. KFN believes that Gunn’s stance is not only offensive but also undermines the ongoing efforts of reconciliation and healing intergenerational trauma within First Nation communities across Canada.

Additionally, he has made harmful statements regarding the LGBTQIA2S+ community and supports controversial figures such as Vladimir Putin and Elon Musk, who threaten the sovereignty and rights of Canadians and well-being of marginalized groups.

“Aaron Gunn’s statements and beliefs are offensive and counterproductive to the efforts of Canada to reconcile with the original peoples of this country. To deny the truth and yet ask voters to support him, truly shows the lack of empathy, understanding, and accountability of someone running for the Conservative Party. Elected officials should represent all their constituents. With a narrow and racist belief system that Gunn proudly displays, he has proven he cannot. In a riding where a large number of voters are Indigenous, we demand that the leader of the Conservative Party remove Aaron Gunn as a candidate in the North Island-Powell River riding. There is no room for racism, for denialism, nor for willful ignorance in 2025.”
— Chief Nicole Rempel, K’ómoks First Nation

It is essential that we elect leaders who promote respect, inclusivity, understanding, and who acknowledge the painful history of Indigenous peoples in Canada. KFN stands in full support of other First Nations leaders, including Grand Chief Stewart Phillip of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs and the First Nations Leadership Council, in denouncing Gunn’s damaging statements.

We call upon our community members, local governments, and businesses to take a strong, united stand against Aaron Gunn’s divisive rhetoric. We urge everyone to reject the harmful ideologies he represents and ensure that our community does not become a platform for spreading hate and division.

Respectfully,

K’ómoks Elected Chief & Council

Nicole Rempel, Elected Chief Councillor
Richard Hardy, Elected Councillor
Candace Newman, Elected Councillor
Susan Savoie, Elected Councillor

Media contact
At this time, KFN Council do not plan to provide additional comments beyond this statement. Thank you.