A Powerful Expression of Living Indigenous Culture at the SLCC

Standing at the entrance of the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) in Whistler, the Sister Poles are two powerful carvings that represent a profound expression of living Indigenous culture — honouring ancestral teachings, community leadership, and the deep relationship between people and territory.

Welcoming guests from across the world, the Sister Poles represent a powerful collaboration between Squamish and Lil’wat master carvers and apprentices through the Salish Summer Carving Series, held during the summer of 2023 and 2024 at the SLCC. The Sister Poles, carved from reclaimed cedar once part of a longhouse in Rebagliati Park, these poles now grace the Centre’s entrance as authentic representation of the vibrant cultures of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Lil̓wat7úl peoples who share territory in Whistler.

The 2023 Squamish House Post: Honouring Síiýam̓ (Chiefs)

On the left stands the Squamish House Post, Honouring Síiýam̓ (Chiefs) carved during the 2023 Summer Salish Carving Series by Xwalacktun (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh / Kwakwak’wakw / Namgis) and Brandon Hall (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh). At the top of this powerful carving honours Síiy̓am̓ (Hereditary Chiefs) — the leaders who came together in the 1923 Squamish Amalgamation to form the Squamish Nation — and their enduring vision, leadership, and responsibility to guide, protect, and care for the people and the land.

In the center of the carving is a canoe, symbolizing the community paddling together in unity, strength, and shared purpose. Beneath it, a bear forms the foundation of the house post — a teacher figure representing strength, wisdom, and protection, grounding the entire carving with cultural teachings and spiritual resilience.

On October 27, 2023, the house post and carvers were honoured in a sacred ceremony that awakened the house post and marked the completion of the carvers’ work.

The 2024 Lil’wat Story Pole: gaw̓ílc wit i ucwalmícwa / The People Got Together

From July to October 2024, guests at the SLCC witnessed Lil’wat Master Carver nkwel̓ánk Jonathan Joe bring to life the newest feature of the Sister Poles, working alongside apprentice qáwam̓ Redmond Andrews and assistant westá7 Todd Edmonds.

On the right, the Lil’wat Story Pole gaw̓ílc wit i ucwalmícwa / The People Got Together honours the Declaration of the Lillooet Tribes signed in 1911 by St̓át̓yemc Chiefs asserting sovereignty and protection of the territories of the eleven St̓át̓yemc communities.

The Lil’wat Story Pole shows rich symbolism that reflects the St̓át̓yemc people. At the top sits a hummingbird, which for the Lil̓wat embodies the natural form of the Thunderbird — connecting the Blue Heron, Salmon, and Human form — and symbolizes the balance of both female and male energies. Along the sides of the pole are five feathers on each side, with an additional feather held in the human figure’s hands, collectively representing the unity of the eleven St̓át̓yemc communities. Carved throughout the pole are pictographs representing clans and families.

On November 8, 2024, the pole and carvers were officially blessed, and the pole was awakened during a sacred ceremony — a moment of deep spiritual and communal significance.

Together: The Sister Poles

Positioned on either side of the SLCC entrance along Lorimer Road in Whistler, the Sister Poles invite all who enter to reflect, learn, and connect. Emerging from the traditional carving practices and spiritual values of both Nations, they stand as bold expressions of cultural resurgence and respect for ancestral teachings. Through the Salish Summer Carving Series, the SLCC cultivates a space for Indigenous mentorship, community engagement, and storytelling — keeping traditional knowledge alive for future generations.

Supported by

The SLCC gratefully acknowledges the support of the Government of Canada and the Resort Municipality of Whistler, whose contributions help bring projects like the Salish Summer Carving Series and the Sister Poles to life.

Visit the SLCC

Come experience the Sister Poles — not just as art, but as living cultural beings. Learn about the traditions, stories, and master carvers who brought these poles to life. These carvings offer an authentic representation of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Lil̓wat7úl territory, reflecting the deep connections between people, land, and culture. Walk the land with deeper understanding and leave with a richer sense of place.

Plan your visit at slcc.ca/visit