Old Massett, British Columbia, June 21, 2010 -- The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today acknowledged the tremendous contribution and history of Jasper National Park’s Raven Totem Pole as it was returned to Old Massett and the Haida Nation after more than 90 years.
The repatriation ceremony also saw the raising of six new Haida poles at Old Massett and a day full of Haida Nation celebrations with over 700 people attending a traditional feast.
“This pole stood proudly in the heart of Jasper and welcomed visitors to Canada’s west while at the same time showcasing the culture and skill of Canada’s west coast Haida community,” said Minister Prentice. “Haida totem poles are an important symbol of Canadian art and our identity as a nation, returning it to Haida Gwaii is a once in a lifetime opportunity to give back to the Haida people something that is rightfully theirs.”
The 140 year-old Jasper Raven Totem Pole was taken down in 2009 after weather and time had taken their toll on its structure. Following completion of restoration work, the Jasper Raven Totem Pole began a commemorative journey through British Columbia and Alberta where hundreds of Canadians – including school children in Kamloops, Calgary, St. Albert, Jasper, Prince George and Prince Rupert – were provided the opportunity to view the rich culture, traditions and art of the Haida Nation.
“Over 90 years ago, the Jasper Raven Totem Pole made its journey from Haida Gwaii to Jasper National Park where it began its life as a tourism icon and became a unique part of the history and heritage of the Community of Jasper and Jasper National Park,” said Minister Prentice. “I am honoured to have this totem pole retrace its steps from many years ago back to where it was originally carved and return home to the Haida Nation”.
In September 2009, Minister Prentice announced that Parks Canada would commission the carving of a new Haida totem pole for Jasper National Park. The carving of a new Haida totem pole has been commissioned from The Council of the Haida Nation, a carver has been selected, and work has begun. The new totem pole, along with celebrations of Jasper region Aboriginal communities’ history and culture are being planned for Spring 2011.
Parks Canada is a world leader in managing protected areas and continues to work to ensure that Canada’s historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future. Through a network of 42 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and three national marine conservation areas, Parks Canada sets the stage and invites Canadians, as well as people from around the world, to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery of our treasured natural and historic places.
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Information:
Thea Mitchell
Media Relations and Executive Services
Jasper National Park
Parks Canada
780-852-6109
Terrie Dionne
Manager, External Relations
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
and Haida Heritage Site
Parks Canada
250-559-6345
