“The totem pole is a sacred and powerful reminder of the truths of the residential school era and the strength of Survivors. We will ensure it is treated with care and respect as we work with the artist to determine how best to restore and honour it.”
– Grand Chief Jerry Daniels
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 17, 2025
ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is providing an update regarding the Residential School Totem Pole located in Assiniboine Park.
Following damage sustained during a recent storm, SCO has coordinated with the artist, Kwakiutl carver Charles Joseph, and construction partner PCL to remove the totem pole for further assessment. The pole will be carefully relocated into secure storage, where the artist and conservation specialists will evaluate the extent of the damage and determine the next steps for restoration.
“The totem pole is a sacred and powerful reminder of the truths of the residential school era and the strength of Survivors,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “We will ensure it is treated with care and respect as we work with the artist to determine how best to restore and honour it. Though the totem pole will not be returning to its location in the park, we thank the Assiniboine Park Conservancy for providing it a home.”
The totem pole was originally installed in Assiniboine Park on Orange Shirt Day, September 30, 2022. It stands as a symbol of remembrance and resilience, telling the story of those who survived residential schools and the children who never returned home. The removal is to ensure safety and to protect the artwork while the full condition of the piece is being reviewed.
“We are deeply honoured to have provided a temporary home for this powerful and important work of art in the Indigenous Peoples Garden. This totem pole carries the stories of Survivors, of the children who never came home, and of a history that must never be forgotten,” said Ray Karasevich, President & CEO, Assiniboine Park Conservancy. “While we are saddened by the damage caused by the recent storm, our commitment to honouring and sharing these stories remains unwavering. Assiniboine Park has always been a place where people gather, learn, and connect, and we will continue to support truth and reconciliation by creating spaces and experiences that foster understanding, respect, and healing.”
SCO remains committed to preserving the totem pole and ensuring that its story continues to be shared in a meaningful and accessible way. Once the assessment is complete, SCO will work in partnership with Charles Joseph and other experts to decide on a suitable restoration, if possible, in preparation for its placement in Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn.
Meanwhile, construction continues on Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn, the First Nations-led transformation of the former Hudson’s Bay building in downtown Winnipeg. The redevelopment, led by SCO in partnership with PCL is progressing steadily. Significant milestones have been achieved this year, including the installation of a tower crane and the advancement of major structural work.
“Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn means ‘it is visible,’ and through this project, we are making reconciliation visible,” added Grand Chief Daniels. “Our vision is to create a place of cultural renewal, housing, and economic opportunity—one that will also provide a permanent and dignified home for the totem pole in the years ahead.”
SCO will continue to share updates as the totem pole assessment and Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn redevelopment progress.
-30-
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 32 First Nations and more than 87,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.
Background: Determining Next Steps for Residential School Totem Pole
For media inquiries:
Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca