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 culture, economy, governance and full enjoyment of Squamish rights and title, according to a news release.
The acknowledgement and apology were delivered 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 news release says.
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… To all Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People: we are sorry.”
The acknowledgement and apology were informed by the ta wanáxw sníchim (True Words) Project, which involved the District’s examination of District archival records, and oral history interviews led by the Squamish Nation to understand past and ongoing harms, according to the news release. The research process and outcomes are detailed in the ta wanáxw sníchim Report.
The formal acknowledgment and apology is one of six priority activities of the District of Squamish and Squamish Nation Memorandum of Understanding signed on July 22, 2025. The MOU outlines a shared commitment to collaboration in areas including land stewardship, reconciliation and joint decision making.
The full formal acknowledgement and apology and the ta wanáxw sníchim Report are available at squamish.ca/formal-apology.
“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,” said 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,” said Mayor Armand Hurford.
