Kitimat and Haisla communities unite for totem pole raising at Haisla Bridge
By: Quinn Bender
Kitimat and Haisla community members gathered in the rain on Sept. 30 for the long-awaited raising of a newly carved totem pole near the Haisla Bridge, an event that symbolized the ongoing efforts toward reconciliation and cultural celebration.
Kitimat and Haisla community members gathered in the rain on Sept. 30 for the long-awaited raising of a newly carved totem pole near the Haisla Bridge, an event that symbolized the ongoing efforts toward reconciliation and cultural celebration.
“We are so thankful for everyone who attended Monday’s pole raising at the Haisla Bridge. This has been a very meaningful project, and we are happy that so many braved the rain to see it put up,” read a notice from the district.
The event, held on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, was preceded by a walk for residential school survivors, starting from Dadook Avenue and ending at the pole site. The newly raised totem pole marks a significant step in the collaboration between the District of Kitimat and the Haisla Nation, reinforcing cultural ties and the importance of community-driven reconciliation efforts.
Designed by Haisla artist Wilson, the totem took five months to complete. It features a trapper holding a marten at the top, symbolizing the traditional waw̓áis trap line, while a grizzly bear with a salmon and an eagle diving with a fish in its talons are depicted below. At the base, salmon and oolichan—both essential species to Haisla culture—are represented. The pole stands on traditional Haisla land near the river, emphasizing the deep cultural connection to the region.
“This is hugely significant for bringing back the old customs that made us strong,” Wilson said.
The pole-raising was part of a weekend of reconciliation events. On Sept. 28, a traditional “Wisenis Hemsa” feast stew was served at the Haisla Recreation Centre, followed by vendors and activities on Sept. 29. The weekend culminated with a Reconciliation Dinner at the Riverlodge Recreation Centre, sponsored by LNG Canada, on Sept. 30 after the pole raising.
Haisla Chief Councillor Crystal Smith had earlier highlighted the importance of the project: “The Haisla Bridge replacement has been such an important step for x̄á’isla representation in the community, both with its construction and the commitment to display Haisla art. It is very exciting to see this latest installation that will share important pieces of our Nation’s culture for the wider community.”
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