Sunshine and a spring breeze elbowed out the clouds and threatening rains so the Sechelt Nation and the Sunshine Coast Spirit of BC Committee could welcome in fine fashion community members from across the Sunshine Coast to take part in carving the Spirit Pole at the Raven's Cry Theatre parking lot on Wednesday.
Dozens of school children, teachers, adults, elders, families and dignitaries turned out and many took a turn carving the three-metre red cedar totem pole created by Coast Salish artist Carey Newman. Journey of the Spirit Pole is about celebrating and honouring the 2008 North American Indigenous Games being held in Cowichan on Vancouver Island in August. It is also part of the commemoration of B.C.'s 150th birthday.
Newman, a fifth generation carver in his family, told the audience wood for the pole came from a 450-year-old tree, donated by the Squamish Nation. It's from the 2006 Stanley Park blowdown. Newman said the victory symbolized by the Spirit Pole is the victory of the journey it is taking and the journey taken by First Nations communities. It is that journey that really counts said Newman, "because out of the difficulties of the past we are able to move forward towards something new and better."
Newman said at the bottom or base of the pole rests a carving of the frog and the first small steps needed to start a great journey. The middle of the pole sees a wolf in a traditional pose denoting family and strong community connections and relationships. The top of the pole, graced by an eagle, shows our future and what it means and what it takes to truly bring us together, Newman said.
Sechelt Indian Band Chief Garry Feschuk welcomed the audience to "this awesome event, and the journey of the Spirit Pole going from community to community culminating in it being erected at the Games in August.
"Being involved in the Games is huge, not just because it showcases the talent of First Nation athletes from across the country and across North America, but because of the friendships that bloom during the events and the hospitality shown by the communities hosting the Games," Feschuk said.
He said he was proud his community was a part of the Spirit Pole's journey.
Newman, who has a rich cultural history, is a bit of an opera buff. He also sings opera. He said doesn't sing at these types of events very often but he wanted to honour his Auntie Myrtle with a song.
Myrtle, who is terminally ill, was brought over by the nursing staff from St. Mary's Hospital to take part in the celebrations. It was a touchingly emotional moment when Newman sang "Danny Boy" to her in his rich voice tinged with an Irish brogue.
Also on hand for the ceremony and to take their turn carving the pole were Town of Gibsons Mayor Barry Janyk and District of Sechelt Mayor Cam Reid, among others.
