Today, B.C. Green Party leader Sonia Furstenau formally announced that she has appointed Dr. Lisa Gunderson as deputy leader. Gunderson is an award-winning educator and equity consultant focusing on issues that affect minoritized populations. She holds a PhD in clinical child psychology from the University of Southern California with a focus on racialized youth.

"I am thrilled to formally announce that I have appointed Dr. Lisa Gunderson as deputy leader of the B.C. Green Party," Furstenau said. "I have worked closely with Lisa for many years on issues of equity and mental health. As an educator, advocate, and mental health professional, she brings a breadth of experience and demonstrates a commitment to service that is unparalleled. I look forward to continuing to work with her in this new capacity."

"I am deeply honoured and humbled to be appointed deputy leader of the B.C. Green Party," Gunderson added. "I have long admired the work that leader Sonia Furstenau and MLA Adam Olsen have done, not only for B.C. Greens, but for all British Columbians.

"As an African-Canadian, the historic moment of this appointment does not escape me. I am grateful for the wonderful support of our communities and to my ancestors on whose shoulders I stand for the opportunity. I hope this appointment inspires British Columbians to know that we can all make a difference.

"Like many of you, I have no family doctor, I rent, I'm a racialized immigrant. I look forward to using my voice and lived experiences to assist our caucus in continuing to inspire and energize those of us who are looking for tangible solutions to the many crises that B.C. currently faces, especially in the areas of climate, access to family doctor, mental wellness, housing, and equity."