Victoria, B.C. – Sonia Furstenau, the Leader of the BC Green Party, officially announced her resignation on January 28, 2025, stepping down after her unsuccessful bid for re-election. Furstenau, who led the party since 2020, expressed great pride and gratitude for her time as leader, feeling it was both "an honour and privilege" to serve.
Furstenau previously represented Cowichan Valley from 2017 until 2024, when she shifted to contest the Victoria-Beacon Hill riding. Unfortunately for her, she lost to incumbent NDP candidate Grace Lore by over 3,600 votes.
Reflecting on her tenure, Furstenau noted, "I'm stepping down today feeling a great sense of accomplishment." She highlighted the achievements during her leadership, including the negotiation of a four-year cooperation agreement with the NDP, which aims to implement significant policies around healthcare, housing, and climate action.
Under Furstenau's guidance, the BC Greens managed to secure funding commitments as part of the agreement, such as $15 million for new and existing community health centres, $50 million for mental health services, and another $30 million aimed at tackling homelessness. These victories represent her commitment to improving the wellbeing of British Columbians and advancing sustainable policies.
Now, as she steps back, Jeremy Valeriote, MLA for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky, will take on the role of interim leader. Valeriote and Rob Botterell, the other newly elected Green MLA from Saanich North and the Islands, have both indicated they will not seek the permanent leadership position. This frees up the leadership race, the rules of which are planned to be released toward February, with the election expected to conclude by mid-September.
Furstenau's dedication to progressive politics saw her party cement its role as the third force within British Columbia's political framework. Several representatives, including Alex Pope and Farrukh Chishtie, Co-Chairs of the BC Green Provincial Council, commended her leadership. "Sonia has led with conviction, compassion, and integrity, steering the BC Green Party to unprecedented achievements," remarked Pope.
Throughout her political career, Furstenau worked assiduously on various issues, including reforms to land use decision-making, advocating for Indigenous rights, and spearheading initiatives to protect the environment. Her pivotal role often placed her at the forefront of significant policy discussions and developments. Furstenau's leadership was marked by her commitment to collaboration, as she emphasized the importance of working across party lines to effect change.
Reflecting on her leadership style, she urged future leaders to prioritize compassion and empathy. "To the incoming members of the legislative assembly, insist on curiosity, on compassion and empathy, first in yourself and encourage it and inspire it in others," Furstenau advised.
The loss of Furstenau's leadership will undoubtedly leave a void within the party; her absence will be felt particularly within the legislature, as neither Valeriote nor Botterell plans on pursuing the leadership, which may necessitate seeking someone outside the current MLAS to fill the role.
Still, Furstenau remains optimistic about the party’s future, asserting, "The BC Green Party is in strong hands, and I look forward to supporting its next chapter." She emphasized her belief during her farewell address, stating, "We’ve shown the value of Greens within the BC Legislature focused on finding solutions and working together. We've demonstrated how politics doesn't have to be a binary choice."
With her stepping down as leader, there are significant expectations of what the future holds for the Green Party. Their ability to adapt and maintain momentum will depend on this upcoming leadership race and their continuous commitment to the party's core values and objectives. Molly McKay, interim executive director of the BC Green Party, asserted, "Sonia’s leadership has been transformative for our party and our province... The Green movement in BC is stronger than ever, and we are excited to continue building on her incredible legacy."
Looking back at what she achieved during her time as party leader, it is evident Furstenau laid down a solid foundation for her successors, championing issues often overlooked by mainstream parties. Although her departure signifies the end of her active involvement, she indicated plans to support the Greens from the sidelines. Her role is now akin to "an auntie who would share food and advice but not try to steer the ship," indicating her desire to mentor the next batch of leaders rather than thrust herself back onto the political stage.
With her tenure now concluded, the BC Green Party faces fresh leadership challenges, yet Furstenau's legacy will continue to inspire and guide the party moving forward. Her indelible mark on both the party and the legislative framework of British Columbia is tantamount to the Greens solidifying their place within the province’s political narrative for years to come.