Memorandum of Understanding

In a historic step forward, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and the District of Squamish have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that affirms our government-to-government relationship and sets out a shared path for land stewardship, reconciliation, and collaborative decision-making.

It builds on decades of cooperation and identifies six Priority Activities to guide our work together.

The six Priority Activities are:

• Issue a formal apology acknowledging the impacts of colonization on the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People, lands, and waters.
• Co-develop a referrals agreement to recognize Squamish Nation jurisdiction and ensure meaningful engagement in land-related decisions.
• Collaborate on community planning, including updates to the District’s Official Community Plan (OCP) and the Squamish Valley Community Development Plan (SVCDP).
• Expand inclusive recreation access by removing barriers to programs, spaces, and services.
• Create a Land Back Task Force to explore returning public lands to Squamish Nation.
• Pause development on Cheekeye Fan Lots while exploring potential land transfer to Squamish Nation.