As the mayor puts it, the show must go on.
Embattled Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull is encouraging the community to attend and support Billy Barker Days this weekend, the city's largest festival of the year, despite being asked by the society not to take part in the event himself.
Paull, who is facing censure and sanctions from council over sharing a book that denies the horrors of residential schools, took to social media to implore residents to attend the event, and that the situation is not the fault of Billy Barker Days.
"While humbly appreciative of the so, so many of your messages, calls, visits, and countless hugs and prayers in support, I respectfully ask those thinking of not participating BB Days to think again. PLEASE get out and support one of the oldest and most beloved fun (and mostly FREE) family festivals anywhere!" stated the mayor on social media.
"I fear that if community support for (Billy Barker Days) dwindles, it may irreversibly threaten the very future of our beloved hometown festival. Please don't blame the actual (Billy Barker Days) festival. (It) is a far too precious (and delicate) community resource to lose!"
In his statement Wednesday (July 17), Paull reminded residents how important the festival is for volunteerism, for local businesses, for the many community groups reliant on the festival fundraising, for tourism "and most importantly for the very well being and good of our community. Long live our beloved Billy Barker Days."
The Billy Barker Days festival society posted a statement to social media on July 14 saying, in part, that Paull's contributions to the festival over the years is valued and the decision to ask him not to be involved was made with the best interest of the festival and the community in mind.
"There is absolutely no political agenda behind this decision. It was based solely on maintaining a respectful and collaborative relationship with all parties involved, including the Lhtako Dene Nation," the society stated. "Our priority is to ensure a harmonious and inclusive event for everyone. We deeply value Ron’s past contributions and hope to work together positively in the future. Thank you for your understanding and support."
Lhtako Dene Nation formally ended their relationship with Paull this spring following a month of controversy which started with Paull's wife trying to share the controversial book to the family of an Indigenous councillor.
Billy Barker Days Society President Barry McKillican declined further comment to the Observer.
The Billy Barker Days Festival is set to begin July 18 and run through July 21.
