Family members of the House of Laay’ are eagerly awaiting the return of their totem pole, which was removed from Nisga’a territory in northwestern British Columbia nearly 80 years ago. The pole has been housed in the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) in Vancouver since 1947 after being purchased by anthropologist Marius Barbeau. The acquisition occurred during a time when Indigenous practices were banned and communities were experiencing significant hardship.
MOA director Susan Rowley emphasizes the need to consider the ethical aspects of how items like the pole were acquired, as they were often obtained under duress during a period of oppression for Indigenous peoples. The repatriation process was initiated in 2023 by Sim’oogit Laay’ (Chief Hubert Haldane), who discovered the pole at the museum. Following his death, the responsibility was passed to Chief Bruce Haldane, who successfully negotiated for its return. The Museum of Anthropology agreed to repatriate the pole within six months, and by June 2024, the UBC board of governors confirmed the decision.
Before its 800- to 900-kilometre journey to Nisga’a territory, a blessing ceremony was held at the University of British Columbia. Cedar boughs were used in a “brushing” ritual to honor the pole’s sacredness. The totem pole is now en route to its final destination at the Nisga’a Museum in Laxgalts’ap, where it will be reunited with the House of Laay’, continuing its cultural and spiritual role for future generations.
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