The Squamish Access Society is urging the immediate removal of a Palestinian flag that has been placed on the rockface of Siy’ám’ Smánit (the Stawamus Chief), a site the group stresses is sacred to the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) People. The society said the social media post was created in collaboration with the Squamish Nation.
The society said leaving or hanging any object on the mountain shows “extreme disrespect” for Squamish Nation culture and history, and asked those responsible to retrieve the flag without delay. Emphasizing that the request is not a political stance but a matter of cultural respect, the society reminded visitors that they are guests on Squamish territory and should “leave nothing behind” when enjoying the landmark’s natural beauty.
Below is the complete statement:
“We have recently become aware that someone has placed a flag on the rockface of Siy’ám’ Smánit (The Stawamus Chief).
Siy’ám’ Smánit (The Stawamus Chief) is a sacred place for the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People. Leaving or hanging anything on the mountain is extremely disrespectful to Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), its culture, and its history.
We would like to ask those responsible to please remove the flag immediately. This is in no way a political statement but instead reflects the significance of Siy’ám’ Smánit to the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People.
We are guests upon these lands, and when enjoying the beauty of Siy’ám’ Smánit, please treat the mountain with the respect it deserves and leave nothing behind.”
Peter says
Speak for yourselves. I’m no guest on this land. It was conquered, not stolen and we seek no permission to be on it. As is the case with every piece of land around the world. Offer all the land acknowledgments you want. Facts are facts and care not for your feelings.