HEALING AND RECONCILIATION FOR COMMUNITIES AND FAMILIES
Revitalizing Cultural Heritage: The Healing Watchman Pole and Garden Project Archdiocese of Vancouver
The Healing Watchman Pole and Garden Project is a transformative initiative dedicated to supporting the Sts’ailes Band community.

This project encompasses the creation of a healing statue and a community garden, providing a sanctuary for healing and a peaceful space for individuals to connect with their heritage.
The contribution from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) will fund commissioning of the Healing Pole and develop the community garden. The Healing Pole, rooted in Coast Salish art, embodies the project’s mission to promote wellness, honor ancestral traditions and address the intergenerational trauma caused by the residential school system. It will stand as a powerful symbol of resilience and renewal for the Sts’ailes people, representing a grounding presence with a profound connection to the land and the ancestors who watch over the community.
The sacred space created by the Healing Pole and Garden will foster cultural revitalization and serve as a cornerstone for healing from historical trauma. It will also strengthen the community’s well-being as a space for communal reflection, ceremonies, and traditional practices.
More information about the Sts’ailes Band
The Sts’ailes Band is a sovereign Coast Salish First Nation with deep-rooted connections to their traditional lands, spanning generations. Their dedication to respecting and revitalizing ancestral teachings, as well as promoting the well-being of their community, underscores their commitment to preserving their rich heritage.
Archdiocese of Vancouver
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