The community is invited to an unveiling ceremony for the first We Wai Kai Totem Pole on Quinsam lands — the first to be raised at a branch of Finning International — on Friday, Dec. 5.
Carved by Kwakwakaʼwakw artist Max Chickite, the 24-foot cedar totem pole features an eagle, whale and bear representing the power of sky, ocean and land. Chickite carved and painted the pole together with his daughter, Jessica Chickite, and apprentice Brent Smith.
In a social-media post, We Wai Kai First Nation said the ceremony celebrates a collaboration between the nation and Finning’s Campbell River branch, a partnership rooted in respect, reconciliation and shared purpose.
Finning provides and sells heavy equipment and parts for the construction, mining, forestry and industrial sectors.
The unveiling will take place at Finning’s Campbell River branch at 700 Osprey Ave. from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
All community members are welcome.
