Squamish Nation and District of Squamish Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Shared Priorities and Reconciliation

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

The signing ceremony took place on July 22, 2025, at Sp’akw’us Feather Park on the Squamish oceanfront. Leaders and community members from both governments gathered to mark the occasion, including Squamish Nation Councillor and Spokesperson Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, District of Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford, and members of both Councils.

The MOU outlines six shared Priority Activities that respond to past and ongoing injustices, while promoting a more inclusive and cooperative future. These include the District’s formal recognition of the impacts of colonization on the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People and a community-based truth-telling process that will culminate in a public apology.

Over the next three years, the MOU commits both governments to:

• Holding Council-to-Council meetings at least twice a year
• Co-developing a referrals management agreement
• Aligning land use and community planning processes
• Establishing a joint Land Back Task Force to explore pathways for the return or comanagement of public lands

Community dialogue sessions and other public engagement opportunities will take place in the coming months, offering space to learn, ask questions, and help shape implementation. 

A copy of the MOU, FAQs, and details about upcoming events are available on the Memorandum of Understanding page.

 
Quotes 
 
“The Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People have lived on these beautiful lands for thousands of years, and it is integral that we are recognized both as a part of its history, and as a key decision-maker in planning its future. The MOU is a significant step forward in ensuring both. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with the District of Squamish and collaborating in meaningful ways that will make Squamish a more vibrant and inclusive place for all.” 
-    Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, Spokesperson and Councillor, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw 
 
 
 
“This MOU is the next important step in our journey with the Squamish Nation, and it is also an invitation to our community to work alongside us to advance reconciliation in action. It reflects and furthers work already happening across Squamish, builds on the 2023 Wa Iyí̓m ta Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish Strong) Protocol Agreement and reaffirms our commitment to walk this path alongside Squamish Nation. This agreement is founded on trust, recognizing shared values, and working to address historical wrongs in very tangible ways to create a stronger future together for all of us.” 
-    Armand Hurford, Mayor, District of Squamish 

July 22, 2025