Unforgettable community discussions and respectful, inclusive debates
The Salt Spring Forum brings diverse perspectives on important issues to a community known for its civic engagement and openness to new ideas.
The Forum has hosted some of the world's leading authors, artists, scientists, political leaders and activists. Our annual speaker series and members-only salons present thought-provoking discussions on some of the greatest issues of our times.
Forum events take place in a truly participatory discussion format that ensures respectful dialogue, a wide-range of perspectives and ideas, and mutual learning.
We invite you to learn more about the Salt Spring Forum. The best way to become involved is to attend one of our many events. We also encourage you to become a member and support our work with a tax-deductible donation.
JOIN US AT OUR NEXT INSPIRING EVENT
Adam Olsen
Who’s Afraid of DRIPA?
ArtSpring 7:30pm June 21
Tickets Available HERE
Crown-Indigenous relations in British Columbia have been badly strained since the BC Supreme Court found, last August, that the Cowichan Nation holds Aboriginal title to a portion of land in Richmond. Some politicians and pundits seized on the Court decision to argue that private property was at risk.
Then, last December, the BC Court of Appeal found that, because of the 2019 UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA), BC and Canadian laws must be interpreted consistently with the UN Declaration. Further controversy ensued, with Premier David Eby threatening to amend, then suspend, sections of DRIPA.
But is private property really at risk? What do the legislation and court judgments actually say? Why have these matters become so politicized?
Adam Olsen is perfectly positioned to answer these and other questions. When Adam steps up to speak, he brings more than political experience – he carries age-old stories shaped by land, law and leadership. A proud member of the Tsartlip First Nation and former MLA for Saanich North and the Islands, Adam has spent years at the intersection of Indigenous governance and provincial decision-making.
Before entering provincial politics, Adam was deeply involved in First Nations governance and community leadership. His approach is grounded in relationship-building, respect for traditional knowledge, and a commitment to long-term, sustainable decision-making.
From 2017-2024, Adam served as a key voice in the Legislative Assembly on issues such as reconciliation, land use, environment stewardship, and democratic reform.
Today, Adam continues to engage audiences across the province, offering deeply informed insights into how Indigenous and non-Indigenous systems of governance can move forward together, and on what meaningful reconciliation would actually involve.
Please join the Salt Spring Forum and Adam Olsen on National Indigenous People’s Day for this important discussion.
see who’s coming
See who we have coming up next at the Salt Spring Forum, both live and online guests.
recent speakers
The Forum has hosted some of the world's leading intellectuals, activists, political leaders, and thinkers.
““I am proud of what Forum does. And feel enlightened, broadened, glad to hear the unvarnished experiences of the speakers...” ”