Nootka Sound RCMP and Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation mark totem pole waking ceremony

May 14, 2026 - Nootka Sound, British Columbia
From: Nootka Sound RCMP

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The Royal Canadian Mounted Police Nootka Sound Detachment and the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation gathered on May 13, 2026 alongside community members, Elders, youth, and invited guests to mark the waking ceremony of a newly commissioned totem pole titled The Protector.

The totem pole now stands prominently at the Nootka Sound RCMP Detachment as a symbol of relationship, reflection, and continued commitment between the RCMP and the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation (MMFN).

The ceremony recognized the deep historical and cultural significance of Yuquot, also known as Friendly Cove, which remains an important place for the MMFN and is recognized as the first site of sustained documented contact between Indigenous peoples and European explorers on the coast of what is now British Columbia.

Carved by MMFN Master Carver Sanford Williams from a log sourced from Yuquot territory, The Protector incorporates a wolf, bear, and five human figures representing the communities and waterways served by the Nootka Sound Detachment: Gold River, Yuquot, Tahsis, Tsaxana, and surrounding waterways.

The wolf symbolizes teamwork, intelligence, communication, loyalty, and community protection. The bear represents courage, skillfulness, and physical protection. Together with the human figures, the carving reflects trust, partnership, and the importance of community relationships.

“The raising of this totem pole represents an important moment in the ongoing relationship between the Nootka Sound Detachment and the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation,” said Sergeant Greg Young, Nootka Sound Detachment Commander. “We are grateful for the guidance, partnership, and trust that continues to grow through meaningful engagement, shared understanding, and respect. We hope The Protector serves as a lasting reminder of our commitment to continuing that work together.”

“On behalf of the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation I would like to thank the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for the respect you are showing to the lands and people of our Territory. Thank you to Sgt. Greg Young for doing this, it shows that you respect the lands and people of where you live and work. Kleco kleco,” said Chief Tlakwagiila, Jerry Jack.

The event was well attended by National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Cindy Woodhouse, local Indigenous leaders, RCMP employees, community members and partners, and guests.

The event coincided with a broader day of cultural celebration in Gold River, including the school district’s annual cultural gathering welcoming students from across the region.

The RCMP acknowledges the role policing and colonial institutions played in the historical challenges experienced by Indigenous Peoples and remains committed to advancing reconciliation through respectful relationships, accountability, and collaboration with Indigenous communities.

Media Contact:
Sgt. Greg Young
Nootka Sound Detachment Commander
250-283-2227