District of Squamish delivers formal apology to Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) for inter-generational harms

The District of Squamish has formally acknowledged the harms inflicted on generations of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) by colonial systems and policies and has apologized for District actions that denied the Squamish People their well-being, culture, economy, governance and full enjoyment of Squamish rights and title. The acknowledgement and apology were delivered both during a private ceremony at Totem Hall on September 19 and acknowledged during a public ceremony at O’Siyam Pavilion on September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The apology reads in part: “The District of Squamish recognizes the racism and discrimination experienced by generations of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People, the loss of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh language and culture, and the lack of respect shown for the sacredness of the lands and waters. We know that colonization negatively impacted the economic development of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People. We are here to show respect, build trust and support the well-being of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People. To all Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People: we are sorry. We are sorry for the harms that you, your families, your communities and your ancestors have experienced, and you continue to experience.”

The acknowledgement and apology were informed by the ta wanáxw sníchim (True Words) Project which involves the District’s examination of District archival records, and oral history interviews led by the Squamish Nation to understand the past and ongoing harms that the District may have had on Squamish Nation People. The research process and the outcomes are detailed in the ta wanáxw sníchim Report.

The formal acknowledgment and apology by the District of Squamish is one of the six priority activities of the District of Squamish and Squamish Nation Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) signed on July 22, 2025. Building on decades of cooperation, the MOU outlines a shared commitment to collaboration in areas including land stewardship, reconciliation and joint decision-making. 

To read the full formal acknowledgement and apology and ta wanáxw sníchim Report, visit squamish.ca/formal-apology.

QUOTES

"This apology represents a significant step forward in the important and thoughtful work our two governments have undertaken since signing the Memorandum of Understanding in July 2025. Throughout this process, the District of Squamish has opened its heart and mind to our People, and that openness has grounded this work in genuine respect and understanding.”
- Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, Chairperson, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) 

“Reconciliation is grounded in truth and the Formal Apology is a significant step forward in our continued path with the Squamish Nation. We express deep gratitude to the Squamish Nation elders and knowledge keepers who shared their stories, teachings and truth as part of this important work.”
-    Armand Hurford, Mayor, District of Squamish 

 

September 30, 2026