The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) is found within the core traditional territories of the Líl̓wat Nation, Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and St’át’imc Nation which includes the communities of N’Quatqua, Samahquam, Sekw’el’was, Skatin, T’ít’q’et, Tsal’alh, Ts’kw’aylaxw, Xaxli’p, Xa’xtsa and Xwisten, all of which are independent and self-governing First Nations. Small parts of the SLRD also overlap with the traditional territories of the Stó:lō, Tsleil-Waututh, Nlaka’pamux, Tŝilhqot’in, and Secwépemc Nations. While the SLRD does not provide direct services to the residents of the First Nations communities, the organization is committed to enhancing relations with the Indigenous communities and First Nations within whose territories the SLRD operates. The SLRD believes that positive working relationships with First Nations are essential to build a strong and resilient region for present and future generations.
The Líl̓wat, Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh and St’át’imc Nations, and all First Nations upon whose territories the SLRD operates, are the original stewards and rights holders of their respective unceded territories. These Nations have inherent and constitutionally protected individual and collective rights, including the right to self-determination and the right to land or a territory, flowing from their status as the original peoples of Canada. These rights extend beyond the boundaries of First Nations Reserve Lands, which represent just a fraction of their lands.
The SLRD recognizes and respects the inherent rights of Indigenous Peoples and First Nations and we are committed to moving together towards the full acknowledgement of these rights. We honour Indigenous Peoples’ and First Nations’ distinct cultures and practices; their laws and systems of governance; their unbreakable ties to these lands and waters; their histories of adversity, strength and resilience as well as their aspirations to protect their cultures, and regain their prosperity and sovereignty.
The work of reconciliation falls to all segments of Canadian society. The SLRD is committed to building meaningful, respectful and enduring relationships with Indigenous Peoples and First Nations as we continue to learn, unlearn, understand and navigate our responsibilities on this shared reconciliation journey. Our actions will be guided in part by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action, B.C.’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and Canada’s United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. We will also look to the First Nations upon whose territories we operate for their continued direction, guidance and collaboration.