Spotlight on Fix It Fernwood A hyper‑local business bringing craftsmanship, care, and community spirit to every project. Owner, operator, builder, and designer Marcel is a Fernwood neighbour who fixes and beautifies the community she calls home.

Have you checked out North Perk? It's North Park’s newest coffee shop and part of Make Space, a welcoming hub for neighbours, artists & local makers. Buy #ToolsforThePeople swag, local art, and even learn to create something of your own. They brew great coffee and build community with every cup.

Today is about visibility, dignity, and the right of every person to live openly and safely as themselves. I’ll keep standing up for people who are marginalized, keep calling out discrimination when I see it, and keep pushing for a world where everyone belongs.

Yesterday Hon Chan claimed he didn’t know about this investigation when he became a candidate. Ok - so a simple question: when WAS he contacted by police? why didn’t he disclose then? His refusal to be forthcoming on a charge for family violence is a major violation of trust.

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I was deeply disappointed that Trevor Halford did not call on Hon Chan to resign immediately. I'm hopeful that BC Conservative MLAs and all leadership candidates will call on him to do that today. My full statement:

Here’s one of those things that you probably didn’t see in the news, but is actually a really meaningful change - new online supports to navigate the courts and legal system. Access to justice is a true equity issue and one that’s essential for democracy - thanks @nikisharma.bsky.social

Spotlighting Think Local First - a volunteer‑run network of local business owners inspiring people to choose local and strengthening our community. Whether you’re a business owner or a consumer, check them out - supporting local is an investment in the place we call home.

Joined for the introduction of Bill 13, The Safe Access to Places of Public Worship Act, by faith leaders right across our community. #DYK a group of Faith leaders is called a wisdom? The learning, heart-filled work, and the gratitude in this job is nonstop 💜 #VictoriaBC #BCPoli

Learn more! #bcpoli

Bills 12 & 13 from @nikisharma.bc! Bubble zones extended around schools and new ones for places of worship. Lean more 👇🏻 Protest, freedom of expression - essential for democracy. You’re just going to have to do it across the street. #BCPoli #YYJ

One of my personal favourites—right in the heart of Fernwood Village. A glass of wine with cheese and bread feels like instant bliss. Stage blends great food, warm lighting, and easy conversation, making every visit feel like a small escape. If you love neighbourhood gems, this is one to linger in.

Let’s talk about sexism in politics. This week, in this province. Meek? Deferring to men? That’s a 3x elected leader, that’s a cabinet minister. Kelly is owed better. We’re owed better. You’re owed better. So is the province. #BCPoli

More incredible local sport, environment, public safety, and PACS organizations making a real impact in our community 👏 We’re so grateful for the work you do. Check out the second slideshow of recipients 👇

💜 bust, heart filled week💜 Monday to Thursday hustle at the legislature and time in and with community The leadership, advocacy and care in this community is incredible. I also met with constituents, police, and service providers! 💜 #BCPoli

Local sport, environmental, public safety, and PACS (Parent Advisory Councils) groups are shining bright! Congratulations to these outstanding community organizations receiving Community Gaming Grants 👏 Part 2 coming soon! Check out the first slideshow of recipients 👇

11 bills have been introduced in this legislative session. Let’s get into it!! Bill 5- the Trade Recognition Act - breaks down many interprovincial trade barriers and makes previous steps we took in the fall permanent. In short - strong standards, while reducing unnecessary barriers. #BCpoli

How we got here 👆🏻👆🏻 Maybe you’re only interested in that extra hour of day light in the evening, maybe you don’t care about the weeds or the process, but maybe 🤓 you do. Questions let me know!

Guys! Big news! Did you hear? We are moving permanently to daylight savings time. One more time change this weekend and that’s it. Onward to a new embroider time zone - Pacific Time! Can I get a hallelujah from the parents and pet owners out there? #bcpoli #YYJ

Studio 1313, located in heart of Fernwood, are all about intentional hair care, sustainable products, and styles that feel uniquely you. New owner Sam - a Fernwoodian herself! - and her pups Milo and Otis make this cozy little studio about looking and feeling great AND building community. 💛

Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Victoria? Check out WinterLime! They’ve got something for everyone — free hot cocoa for the first 1,500 people, 20+ local vendors, and delicious Caribbean food and desserts. A perfect family‑friendly way to support local and enjoy the winter vibes.

It has been a LONG time since there was a a division over people’s basic human rights in BC Politics. But today, Armstrong tried to repeal the Human Rights Code. And every single Conservative in the house voted in favour of a bill. But we voted it down - human rights are NOT up for debate.

Spotlighting the Victoria Chinese Community Services Centre, a cornerstone for newcomers, families & seniors in our region. A warm welcoming hub with language support, cultural programs and community outreach, they help people feel at home, stay connected, and thrive.

Moral of the story - second hand for the planet and community BUT ALSO so you can spend more of your money on amazing women owned local businesses and artists and even match with your friends!

Did you know we have cooper and gold here on Vancouver Island? I sure didn’t, but we absolutely do! A mine on the north Island was selected by the Critical Minerals Office Faster economic development while supporting reconciliation and protecting communities, partners and the planet. #BCPoli

Black History IS Victoria’s history. If you’re interested in learning more about our city and our region and #blackhistory in #BCPoli and #VictoriaBC go to the @blackhistory.bc tour of #RossBayCemetery tomorrow at 2. It is *so* informative and interesting.

My first Budget 2026 highlight: a higher rate for foreign owners of empty homes. Money that goes to building more affordable homes. + a Public Service Announcement: SPEC declarations are out! Takes 5 minutes. If you live in or rent your home, you won’t pay the tax. #BCPoli

Spotlighting the VCCFA, celebrating 60 years of cultural connection. Their 2025 gala brought together nearly 200 guests, including Canadian representatives and Chinese officials, to honour decades of friendship and community building.

The toxic drug crisis means anyone, whether they’re using for the first time or have used regularly, faces the risk of death from poisoned drugs. That’s why we’re investing $50 million to expand access to nasal naloxone – to save lives. news.gov.bc.ca/releases/202...

BC Black History month! If you’re in the @bclegislature.bsky.social stop by the Hall of Honour and learn about #RosemaryBrown #BCPoli #YYJ #VictoriaBC #BlackHistoryMonth

As we start a new week, and kids and their families get ready to go back to school, and community continues with a heavy heart, here again are some resources if you need them. (And it is absolutely ok if you need them). Check out new group types at the Foundary.

Canadians and British Columbians are coming together, we are united as we stand with Tumbler Ridge and each other, in grief and in support. That is who we have to be. We can't this tragedy be exploited to attack Trans and queer people. Choose love, choose truth, choose care #bcpoli

Keep holding light, love, and community. Centre kindness. Hug each other and carry strength and love forward. George Jay Elementary getting it right thus morning. Thank you Colin Smith 📷 for attending the vigil to capture it

Candle Light Vigil for Tumbler Ridge Victims, Families, & Community TONIGHT Wednesday February 11th 7:00PM Front steps of the BC Legislature

Hold your kids and hold your community close. My thoughts are with everyone in Tumbler Ridge. My heart is with those facing unimaginable loss, with those injured, and with first responders and those who jumped into action. Practice love, generosity, and kindness in the days and the road ahead.

National Toy Museum of Canada is open again! From action figures 🤖 to retro collectibles 🕹️, it’s a place where childhood memories come rushing back + new ones are made. Community support keeps this wonder growing. Absolutely worth a visit if you love history, play, or just a good dose of joy.

The Legislature starts sitting again soon! This is a reminder that the Legislature is the people’s house and you can come visit and watch the debates anytime. If you want to watch question period - the most dramatic part of the day, reach out to my office for tickets. Please come, please join us!

Sunday medicine for the heart and mind. So many seals could be heard. #DYK Tlikwaynung is the Lekwungen name for what we now call Trial Island - a place where there were lots of seals! Tlikwaynung is an ecological reserve - vernal pools, camas, and Garry oaks.

The Fairfield Repair Care gets a 10/10 from me! Volunteers fixing your toaster or hairdryer or pants or radio from TV 70s! Keep things out of the landfill, your money in your pocket, build community! First Saturday, every other month. See you in April? #repaircafe #YYJ #VictoriaBC

Busy week - I meet with parents and teachers across the city to talk education and what our students, and teachers need. I connected with Fernwood NRG, The Cook Street Activity Centre, Cridge, Transition House, the Allied Health Centre and Primary Care Network, DGV, Pacifica Housing, and Peers!

Next time you're walking through James Bay, stop by Irving Park and check out the plaque honouring Gibbs and remember the long history of Black leadership and contribution here in our city.

More local #VictoriaBC Black history. Meet Mifflin Wistar Gibbs - one of the first Black elected officials in Canada. He came to Victoria as part of a wave of Black settlers in the 1850s and was a businessman and City Councillor from 1966 to 1869 Learn more this weekend @royalbcmuseum.bsky.social

The Other Guise Theatre is a bold, community‑driven company bringing fresh, imaginative performance to Victoria’s arts scene. They spotlight local talent, inventive storytelling & theatre that feels alive, curious, and unexpected. Their space, open since late last year, is now available to book.

There is so much Black history to learn in this province! Stop by the inner harbour and then head on over to the Maritime Museum! They have an exhibit on this 1858 history. you’ll find this and so much more B.C. Black History Awareness Sociery #BCpoli #bchistory #BlackHistoryMonth

25+ local cafés, bakeries & restaurants are pouring limited‑edition hot chocolates — from the Empress’s Marshall’s Marshmallow Melt to Pure Lovin’ Chocolate’s Black Forest. Each drink is unique, delicious, and donates $1 to the BC SPCA Victoria Community Animal Centre. hotchocolatefestvictoria.com

When police are involved in a crisis response they need the right tools to respond with compassion, safety, and care. HealthIM is a digital, evidence-based screening that helps police and health-care providers share critical information in real time.

House of Savoy is Victoria’s oldest consignment store and proudly women‑owned since day one. A reliable local staple of the circular economy, they give great fashion a second life - and we love celebrating businesses that keep style sustainable and community‑minded.