Burnaby-Lougheed MLA Katrina Chen has asked Premier David Eby not to include her in his new cabinet, set to be sworn in tomorrow morning (Dec. 7).
Chen, who was the Minister of State for Child Care in former Premier John Horgan's cabinet, said in a statement today (Dec. 6) that she is stepping away from a ministry role due to long-term trauma and wanting to spend more time with her son.
"Today is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women," she said in a statement sent to the NOW.
"As a survivor of gender-based violence more than once in my life, including as a child, I have long-term trauma that has yet to be fully unpacked.
"The long-standing trauma has continued to impact my life, even as I dedicated my time to my work in cabinet to deliver progress on child care for B.C. families. I am incredibly proud of my journey. As an immigrant, I have represented our community in the legislature, and have worked with my colleagues to start up the first social program in a generation.
"I need time to focus on myself and my son, and have asked Premier David Eby to not consider me for cabinet. I stand with all survivors of gender-based violence."
Chen went on to thank her constituents, Premier Eby, colleagues, staff members and everyone that she has worked with for giving her time and space to heal.
"I will now turn my attention to focus on what lies ahead for my son and me."
Chen was elected as the MLA for Burnaby-Lougheed in 2017 and re-elected in October 2020.
Eby and his cabinet will be sworn in at Government House in Victoria at 10 a.m. by Lt.-Gov. Janet Austin.
