I have just returned from Haida Gwaii. While there I learned some interesting things that relate to our community of St. Albert, which we might like to incorporate into our society. These relate to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the Lions Park totem pole and the spruce trees removed for the St. Anne Street Extensions
1. Most Haida who were taken from their homes to residential schools were placed in the St. Albert residential schools. We had two here in St. Albert. Eighty per cent or more never returned to Haida Gwaii, according to Haida Watchman Duck at Gwaii Haanas UNESCO World Heritage Site SGang Gwaaay (Anthony Island). The Haida clans are Eagle and Raven, which will be placed at the top of their totem poles.
2. St. Albert once had a totem pole standing proudly at the entrance to Lions Park. We do not know for sure who carved the pole, maybe renowned carver Ellen Neel nor for what purpose, maybe the opening celebration of a Woodward’s department store in Edmonton? See St. Albert Gazette Dec 10, 2011. Whether or not these things are true, this totem pole is a piece of art and historical artifact of our city. It should be displayed in our city. Maybe this totem pole should be dedicated to the new Millennium Park as our recognition of our history in the residential schools saga.
3. In the Sites I visited in Haiida Gwaii, the logs were used in the construction of paths as barriers, stepping stones and stairs. The logs from the trees particularly the white Spruce logs could and should be placed and used in our Grey Nuns White Spruce Forest rather than as obstacles in the bike skills park.
I hope this information will be useful to you, our council, management and community in the building of a better St. Albert community and society. Please pass this on to those you might think could use this information.
Sincerely,
Liz Samson, St. Albert
