In a significant step towards reconciliation, the City of Terrace is set to return two Indigenous talking sticks to their rightful owners after more than six decades. The talking sticks, one featuring a killer whale head and the other adorned with coppers, were once displayed in the City’s council chambers. They are believed to originate from Kingcome Inlet, home of the Dzawadaʼenux̱w First Nation.
The journey to repatriate these cultural artifacts began in 2016 when former City Councillor Michael Prevost urged a closer investigation of their origins. This effort aligns with a broader national movement to restore Indigenous cultural objects taken under duress. Historical records indicate that the talking sticks were donated to the City by Skeena Forest Products Ltd. and Pohle Lumber Co. Ltd., with origins traced to either Kingcome Inlet or Gilford Island.
Despite initial challenges in contacting the rightful owners, a breakthrough came when Indigenous artist Lou-ann Neel, after consulting with Marianne Nicolson from the Dzawadaʼenux̱w, identified the sticks as belonging to Kingcome. In June 2024, Nicolson and her sister Midori visited Terrace, where they were deeply moved to see the talking sticks again.
The City of Terrace contributed $1,500 towards travel costs for the Dzawadaʼenux̱w representatives, supplemented by a Canada Council for the Arts Grant aimed at supporting the return of cultural items. The sisters’ visit also included engagements with local leaders and the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art, further fostering understanding and goodwill.
Marianne Nicolson described the return as a significant gesture of reconciliation, reflecting on the historical and cultural importance of the talking sticks. The City of Terrace, under Mayor Sean Bujtas, has expressed its commitment to supporting ongoing reconciliation efforts and looks forward to further collaboration with Indigenous communities.
This repatriation marks a hopeful chapter in the journey toward healing and cultural restoration, underscoring the importance of acknowledging and addressing historical injustices.
Archival photo of Kingcome Village. Photo Credit: Amy Wakefield: The Anglican Archives of New Westminster
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