“While the removal of the James Cook statue reminds the public of our presence, it is a two-edged political tool,” Tom said in a statement. “On one hand, it pushes the envelope and forces the public to confront the real issues. On the other, it can embolden racists, sway moderates, and put Indigenous people in harm’s way. “We support calls for the cancellation of Canada Day and we support those who are grieving the loss of our children, but we do not support the destruction of property in their name.” Hours after Cook’s statue was thrown into Victoria’s Inner Harbour, vandals set fire to the totem pole on the Malahat lookout off the Trans Canada Highway.