Biography
David Barrett, or Dave was born in Vancouver, BC with a Jewish family on October 2, 1930, with his maternal being from Ukraine, and his paternal from Russia. He went to pursue his studies in the United States in Philosophy (Seattle University), and Social Work (Saint Louis University), later returned to BC in 1957 to work at the Haney Correctional Institute. Dave Barrett is the 26th Premier of BC, and the first NDP Premier of BC, and as well as the first political leader of Jewish descent in Canada. He has passed down about 400 legislative bills over the course of his three years as Premier, including
Premier Years
- Created ICBC (public auto insurance)
- Established the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)
- Abolished corporal punishment in schools
- Introduced Pharmacare and a human rights code
- Expanded labour protections
Legacy
Though his term lasted only three years, Dave Barrett’s reforms left a lasting legacy. He demonstrated the power of bold, principled leadership and inspired future generations of public servants and progressives. From 1984 to 1987, he went to become a host of the CJOR AM 600’s Morning Talk Show in Vancouver. Barrett was elected as a member of parliament for Esquimalt in November 21, 1988, and in October 25, 1993, he was unfortunately defeated in the Federal Election. Twelve years later, he was appointed as an officer of the Order of Canada, and became a member of the Order of British Columbia in 2012. He died of Alzheimer’s disease on February 2, 2018 in Victoria, BC. An emotional and entertaining speaker, Barrett’s informal style made him a popular figure with the BC public. Barrett's tenure marked a significant shift in British Columbia's political landscape, introducing progressive policies that have had a lasting impact on the province.
Family Memories
Quite interestingly, I‘m related to this wonderful guy. He‘s my Great-Granduncle. Though, I have never met him in person before. If he was still be alive, I would’ve thanked him for all the things that he did for all British Columbians and this province in general. To us, he was more than a premier — he was a beloved relative with a great sense of humor, a fierce sense of justice, and a deep love for people.
”Dave had an ability to capture your heart, mind and soul.” - Former premier, John Horgan
Gallery
Photos and videos will be added soon to celebrate his life and work.