A totem pole symbolizing the BC government's commitment to meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous residents has been installed in front of the Ministry of Health building in the 15-hundred block of Blanshard Street.
The totem was carved outside the Royal BC Museum over the summer by Tom and Perry LaFortune, brothers and members of the Tsawout First Nation. It's theme is Crossing Cultures and Healing.
From the top down the totem features a Raven -- a messenger of good news; an Owl -- symbolizing the ability to see in both worlds, past, present and future; a Frog -- conscience of the community; a Grandmother -- teacher of respect, humility, and resilience; and Rope, connecting the figures together for strength and continuity.
Speaking at the unveiling Esquimalt Nation's Executive Director Katie Hooper says the totem pole project aligns with the Nation's belief that healing can be created from the art of sharing.
Health Minister Adrian Dix says allowing the public to witness the carving provided an excellent learning opportunity to witness First Nations cultural practices, adding increased understanding of Indigenous culture is a high priority, particularly within the health-care system, as efforts are made to provide culturally safe care.
The pole is carved from a piece of 300-year-old red cedar and originally stood at seven metres (25 feet) pre-carving. It was donated by TimberWest .