Warning: Graphic content A Vancouver Island brewery says it has met with local Indigenous leaders as it works toward reopening following a controversy that began when one of its co-owners wore a “Show Me the Evidence” shirt on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Sooke Brewing Company says the individual involved is no longer working at, representing or involved in the operation of the business. “We remain deeply sorry for the hurt caused by what happened on Sept. 30,” the brewery said in a statement to CTV News. The company did not provide details about who took part in the meetings with Indigenous leadership, saying the conversations are being kept private out of respect for those involved. “We are grateful for the opportunity to listen,” the statement said. The brewery said its remaining owners are working through the “appropriate process” to determine what comes next. The controversy erupted after a photograph circulated online showing then-co-owner and head brewer John Adair wearing the shirt while at the brewery on Sept. 30. The message drew widespread criticism because of its timing on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which honours residential school survivors, remembers the children who never returned home and recognizes the continuing impacts of the residential school system. Sooke Brewing Company initially apologized, saying the shirt’s message was inconsistent with what the business stands for. The company subsequently announced that Adair had been terminated, effective immediately, and temporarily closed the brewery. It also cancelled upcoming events and said it had reached out to First Nations leadership to listen to concerns and determine what should happen next. Debra Lazzar, an elected councillor with T’Sou-ke First Nation, previously told CTV News the incident was particularly painful for survivors, their families and the wider community. Lazzar said she wanted to see meaningful action beyond an apology. She suggested the brewery could support future Orange Shirt Day events, establish a scholarship for T’Sou-ke students or contribute to programs supporting Indigenous women. She also offered to help facilitate a meeting between the brewery and members of the community. The brewery’s latest statement confirms that a meeting with local Indigenous leadership has now taken place, although it is not saying what was discussed or whether any specific commitments resulted from the conversations. The update comes after the controversy spilled beyond the brewery itself. Sooke RCMP opened a criminal investigation after someone spray painted “evidence?” on the side of the building. Police said they were reviewing surveillance footage and increasing patrols in the area. No suspect was identified. The brewery is now focused on reopening, although it has not announced a date. “We are also grateful to the community for continuing to hold us accountable, and to our staff for the care and resilience they have shown while navigating this together,” the company said. It said its priority is supporting employees and preparing to reopen “in a way that respects what has happened and the work that remains ahead.” The company said it will share further information through its official channels.
