At Housing Squamish, Truth and Reconciliation isn’t just a principle, it’s a commitment we actively uphold. Housing development starts with land, and we recognize that our community is built on the unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation).
Putting Truth and Reconciliation into Action
- Collaborative Ownership: In 2024, Housing Squamish partnered with Hiy̓ám̓ ta Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Housing Society to purchase Tantalus Manor at 1098 Wilson Crescent, securing housing for the Squamish community.
- Returning Land for Housing: This partnership ensures that land and housing remain in the hands of the Squamish Nation and local community.
- Supporting Long-Term Housing Goals: To align with the Squamish Nation’s goal of housing all members within 25 years, vacancies at Tantalus Manor are prioritized for Hiy̓ám̓ ta Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Housing Society applicants for up to half of the units.
Indigenous communities continue to face significant housing challenges. While the national average is 440 dwellings per 1,000 residents, there are only 166 dwellings per 1,000 members on Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw reserves. The need is further underscored by homelessness rates; 32% of those counted in the 2023 Squamish homeless survey identified as Indigenous, compared to just 3% of the Census population. Addressing this gap is crucial to ensuring that Squamish Nation members can remain in and return to their community.
By working together, we can take meaningful steps toward reconciliation, ensuring that housing solutions reflect both past truths and a shared future.