Project Overview
In 2019 a naming committee was struck for what became the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre. During committee meetings the panel informed the City of New Westminster that there were art forms in the community that were not indigenous to local First Nations. In response, the City undertook a more thorough investigation of all Indigenous-style art forms on lands managed by the City.
The City has learned that three totem poles located at Hume Park, Moody Park, and Ryall Park are not carved by Indigenous artists or connected in any way to any local First Nations.
As a result, the City has made an informed decision to decommission (remove) the poles.
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Key Findings of Pole Review
- Each pole was carved and maintained by non-Indigenous individuals; they were carved by a former City Gardener as playground design features in the 1980s and later repaired by local painter.
- No evidence was found that any consultations, guidance or permission to create the poles was obtained by any local First Nations or relevant Indigenous community members.
- The poles are not included in the City's Public Art inventory and do not have important cultural or artistic significance.
Decommission Process and Commitment to Reconciliation
The City of New Westminster acknowledges its role in the colonization of British Columbia and has made a commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action and endorsed the articles of The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (PDF) (UNDRIP). UNDRIP outlines internationally-recognized rights of Indigenous Peoples, including decision-making about the preservation of cultural items, heritage, identity, and self-determination. UNDRIP also calls upon all levels of government to take action to uphold these rights and reduce harm caused by government action, past and present.
The City recognizes that the three totem poles infringe on rights identified by UNDRIP. The poles are a clear act of cultural appropriation, which is the inappropriate use of cultural elements of one culture or identity by members of another culture without consent. Appropriation is especially harmful when there is an imbalance of power and "is often a by-product of colonialism and oppression, commonly referenced by Indigenous cultures living under colonial rule" (Indigenous Protocols for the Visual Arts [PDF])
To take meaningful steps toward truth and reconciliation, the City takes responsibility for the three poles and is removing them out of respect to local First Nations and Indigenous community members.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Project Contact
For more information, please contact Heritage Services at museum@newwestcity.ca