**Protesters Disrupt OneBC Event at UVic, Leading to an Arrest**

Protests Erupt at University of Victoria, Leading to One Arrest

Victoria, BC – December 3, 2025 – A demonstration at the University of Victoria (UVic) today resulted in one arrest, as tensions flared during an event organized by the group OneBC. The event, held on UVic’s campus, drew both supporters and protesters, sparking a meaningful police presence and ultimately, a confrontation.

Multiple news outlets – including CBC, CHEK news, the Times Colonist, and the Toronto Star – reported on the unfolding situation.While details surrounding the event’s specific focus remain somewhat contested, reports indicate the protest centered around disputes regarding residential school deaths. OneBC has not yet released a complete statement addressing the concerns raised by demonstrators.

UVic News characterized the event as “divisive,” acknowledging the strong reactions it provoked within the campus community. Law enforcement was called to the scene to manage the escalating situation, leading to the arrest of one individual.The identity of the arrested person has not been publicly released.

This incident underscores a growing trend of heightened activism on university campuses across Canada, frequently enough focused on issues of social justice and historical reconciliation. Universities are increasingly becoming focal points for public debate, navigating the complexities of free speech and the need to maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment.

The situation at UVic highlights the ongoing national conversation surrounding the legacy of residential schools and the importance of addressing historical injustices. As Canada continues to grapple with its past, similar demonstrations are likely to occur, demanding accountability and meaningful change.

Further updates will be provided as more facts becomes available.

what legal ramifications could the arrested protester face,given the charges of trespassing and resisting arrest?

The Incident at the University of Victoria

On december 2nd,2025,a OneBC event held at the University of Victoria (UVic) was significantly disrupted by a group of protesters. The event, focused on provincial economic growth initiatives, saw a exhibition escalate, resulting in one arrest made by the Saanich Police Department. The protest centered around concerns regarding the BC government’s environmental policies and perceived lack of consultation with Indigenous communities.

This incident highlights a growing trend of political activism on university campuses and the increasing tension surrounding resource management in British Columbia. The disruption caused a temporary halt to the event, impacting scheduled presentations and Q&A sessions.

Details of the Protest and Arrest

The protest began peacefully with approximately 30-40 individuals gathering outside the UVic campus’s Student Union Building where the OneBC event was taking place. Protesters carried signs with slogans criticizing the provincial government’s stance on old-growth logging, pipeline projects, and the impact of development on customary territories.

As the event commenced, a smaller group of protesters attempted to enter the building, leading to a confrontation with security personnel. According to police reports, one individual refused to comply with requests to leave the premises and was subsequently arrested for trespassing and resisting arrest.

* Charges: Trespassing and resisting arrest.

* Police Involvement: Saanich Police Department responded to the scene.

* Protester Demands: focused on environmental protection and Indigenous rights.

* Event Impact: temporary suspension of event proceedings.

OneBC and its Objectives

OneBC is a provincial initiative aimed at fostering economic growth and innovation across British Columbia. The program focuses on attracting investment, supporting local businesses, and creating job opportunities. The UVic event was intended to be a platform for discussing the program’s progress and gathering feedback from stakeholders.

Key areas of focus for OneBC include:

1. Enduring Development: Promoting economic growth while minimizing environmental impact.
2. Indigenous Partnerships: Collaborating with Indigenous communities on economic initiatives.
3. Technology and Innovation: Supporting the growth of BC’s tech sector.
4. Skills Training: Providing training programs to equip workers with the skills needed for future jobs.

Perspectives from UVic and the BC Government

University of Victoria officials released a statement acknowledging the protest and emphasizing the university’s commitment to freedom of expression. Though, they also stressed the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful habitat for all members of the campus community.

“UVic supports peaceful protest, but disruptions that interfere with scheduled events and compromise safety will not be tolerated,” the statement read.

The BC government has yet to issue a formal response to the specific incident at UVic, but a spokesperson reiterated the government’s commitment to engaging in constructive dialog with all stakeholders, including Indigenous communities and environmental groups. They emphasized the importance of balancing economic development with environmental protection.

Legal Ramifications and Protester Rights

The individual arrested faces potential legal consequences, including fines or jail time, depending on the outcome of the court proceedings. In Canada, individuals have the right to peaceful protest, but this right is not absolute.

Key considerations regarding protester rights include:

* Freedom of Expression: Protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

* Limits on Protest: Restrictions can be placed on protests that pose a threat to public safety or infringe on the rights of others.

* Trespassing Laws: Entering private property without permission can result in arrest.

* right to Legal Counsel: Individuals have the right to legal portrayal if arrested.

Similar Protests and Trends in BC

This incident is part of a broader pattern of environmental and Indigenous rights protests across British Columbia. Recent years have seen numerous demonstrations targeting logging operations, pipeline construction, and government policies related to resource extraction.

Notable examples include:

* Fairy Creek Blockades (2021-2022): Large-scale protests against old-growth logging in Fairy Creek Provincial Park.

* Coastal GasLink Pipeline Protests (2020-Present): Ongoing demonstrations opposing the construction of the Coastal GasLink pipeline.

* Wet’suwet’en Pipeline Protests (2020): Nationally recognized protests in support of the Wet’suwet’en hereditary chiefs’ opposition to the pipeline.

these protests reflect growing public concern about environmental sustainability and the rights of indigenous peoples. They also highlight the challenges of balancing economic development with environmental and social considerations.

Resources for Further Information

* Saanich police Department: https://www.saanichpolice.ca/

* University of Victoria: https://www.uvic.ca/

* OneBC: [https://www2gov[https://www2gov