In this special episode of the Whistler Podcast, Mayor Jack Crompton speaks with Wilson Williams, an elected Councillor in his third term with the Squamish Nation. This episode was recorded live at the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Lil̓wat7úl Cultural Centre (SLCC) on July 1, 2023.  

Listen as they dive into Williams’ work with the Squamish Nation, his early days as a lacrosse athlete, his journey of learning about his family’s history, what Canada Day means to him today, and his hopes around uniting to meaningfully include Indigenous peoples through dialogue, education, and action. 

There are some audio gaps in the recording. We encourage you to stick with this important episode as we are invited to learn how we can “paddle forward together.” 

Listen now: 

Host: Mayor Crompton 

Guest: Wilson Williams 

Links/More Information 

• Squamish Nation 
• Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre 
• National Indigenous History Month at the SLCC 
• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation 
• United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples 

Acknowledgements 

The Resort Municipality of Whistler is grateful to be on the shared, unceded territory of the Lil’wat People, known in their language as L̓il̓wat7úl, and the Squamish People, known in their language as Sḵwx̱wú7mesh. We respect and commit to a deep consideration of their history, culture, stewardship and voice. 

This podcast was recorded in the Sound Booth at the Whistler Public Library’s Wonder Lab. 

Wilson Williams on Canada Day in 2023. Photo: RMOW/Oisin McHugh