General Information​

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How tall will the new totem pole be?

The new totem pole will stand at approximately 176 feet, exceeding its current title as the world's tallest totem pole (173 feet).

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What cultural and historical significance does the totem pole have?

Totem poles are deeply meaningful to Kwakwaka’wakw identity, and we have shared them with the world. There are many different types of totem poles. They serve as visual stories of our world and the supernatural world. Totem Poles will also tell stories of ancestry and history, and memorial poles will tell the story of lineage, crests and wealth as well as identity. This pole will be a symbol of resilience, unification of the Kwakwaka’wakw tribes and the perseverance of our culture and traditions.

Learn more about totem poles

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What is the Nakalkala Cultural Society?

Based in Alert Bay, BC, The Nakalkala Cultural Society is a BC non-profit organization dedicated to developing and maintaining the world’s tallest totem pole and the related facilities. ​Our mission is to move forward in the most humblest way we can and to maintain respect and integrity so we can honor the rich cultural heritage that was left behind for us by our ancestors of this great  Kwakwaka’wakw nation. By rebuilding the totem pole, we will be continuing the legacy that was left behind for us. fostering community involvement, and creating lasting educational and cultural opportunities for future generations.

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Where is Yalis (Alert Bay), and why is it significant?

Yalis, also known as Alert Bay, is a small but culturally significant community on Cormorant Island, off the Northeast coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. It is home to the ‘Namgis First Nation and is one of the centers for Kwakwaka’wakw art, language, and traditions.

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What is the history of the World's Tallest Totem Pole in Alert Bay?

The original totem pole was raised in 1973 and stood as a symbol of Unity of the tribes of the Kwakwaka'wakw cultural resilience and pride. At 173 feet tall, it was recognized as the world’s tallest totem pole. Over time, weather and age have taken their toll, leading to the decision to carve and raise a new pole.

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Why is the Nakalkala Society rebuilding the totem pole?​

The existing "World’s Tallest Totem  Pole" has been assessed as hazardous and unrepairable by independent audits and engineers. A large potential loss to the community both economically and culturally would result if the current pole is lost or falls close to or on the adjacent Big House without being safely taken down and a clear plan for raising the new pole. The rebuilding of the totem pole is a way to honor our ancestors, revitalize traditional carving practices, and bring people together in a meaningful act of cultural resurgence. The new pole will stand as a beacon of Kwakwaka'wakw strength, unity, and storytelling for generations to come.

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How can I learn more about culture and traditions in Alert Bay?

We encourage visitors to explore the U’mista Cultural Centre, attend local events, and connect with community members who share stories and traditions.

 

Project Details

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Who is involved in carving and raising the new totem pole?​​

 

All of our Kwakwaka’wakw Nations are being brought together for this monumental project.

 

They are:

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Kwaguł

Mama̱liliḵa̱la

‘Na̱mg̱is

Ławit’sis

Awa’etłala  

Da̱’naxda’x̱w

Ma’amtagila 

Dzawada’enuxw 

Kwikwasut´inuxw 

Haxwa’mis 

Gwawa’enuxw 

‘Nak´waxda’xw

Gwa’sala 

Gusgimukw

Gwat´sinuxw

T´łat´łasikwala 

Weka’yi 

Wiwek’am

 

 

 

Master carvers, apprentices, and community members from the Kwakwaka’wakw Nations are being sought after and will be leading the creative part of the project, ensuring traditional knowledge and artistry are passed down to future generations. Each of the existing nations will have a team working specifically on their section of the pole. The project aims to make this participation as inclusive as reasonably possible, while still getting the job done.

 

Engineers, landscape architects, crane operators, and architects are being consulted on both the raising of a new 176 ft pole and the adjacent Cultural and Interactive Experience Centres buildings under development. 

 

What materials and traditional methods are being used?

The totem pole is being carved from two sourced red cedar trees from traditional Kwakwaka’wakw territory following the time-honored techniques passed down through generations of our carvers. The exact specimens and site have yet to be finalized but a number of candidates are under consideration. The trees involved will only be used for cultural purposes. A blessing ceremony will be held at the site (to be selected) of the appropriate source fibre (trees).   

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What is the expected timeline for the project?

We expect landscape preparation and temporary shelter to be set up in summer and fall of 2025 with carving to begin spring 2026 and construction of visitor and community cultural facilities in 2027.

 

How tall will the new totem pole be?

The new totem pole will stand at approximately 176 feet, exceeding its current title as the world's tallest totem pole.

 

Community & Participation

How can I support the Nakalkala Society and the totem pole project?

You can support us by donating, attending fundraising events, spreading awareness,volunteeering, or starting your own fundraising campaign

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Are there opportunities for volunteers to get involved?

Yes! We welcome volunteers to assist with events, fundraising efforts, and logistical support. There are many aspects to their multi year project, many roles to fill, and many hands make light work.  

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How does this project benefit the local community and Indigenous culture?

This project strengthens cultural identity, provides opportunities for youth to learn traditional carving, and fosters a sense of pride and unity within the community. And the bigger community of the Kwakwaka'wakw Nation It also attracts visitors interested in learning about the  history of the Kwakwaka'wakw peoples. 

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Are there upcoming events related to the project?

We plan to host fundraising, cultural, and educational events in the lead up to the project. A critical path of this will be the safe lowering of the existing pole, currently deemed unsafe (TBD). Follow our website and subscribe to our email newsletter for the latest updates.

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Donations & Fundraising

How can I donate to support the totem pole project?

You can donate here [link] or by attending one of our fundraising events. Every contribution helps bring this vision to life.

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Is my donation tax-deductible?

We are able to make charitable tax receipts for donations above $15,000 but only regular (not for profit) receipts on amounts less than. We are also  beginning the process of making the Nakalkala Cultural Society a Charitable Organization.

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Can businesses or organizations sponsor the project?

Absolutely! We welcome corporate sponsors and partnerships. Please <contact> us to discuss sponsorship opportunities.

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Where does the funding for this project come from?

Funding comes from donations, grants, family foundations, sponsorships, and fundraising initiatives.

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How will the funds be used?

Donations go towards research, planning, materials, artist wages, community programming, event logistics, and educational initiatives surrounding the project[Link]

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Media & Outreach

How can I stay updated on the project’s progress?

Sign up for our newsletter, or visit our website for updates.​

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Who should I contact for media inquiries?

For press and media inquiries, please reach out to our communications team via email (contact details on our website).

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Are there any documentaries or articles about the project?

We are working on documenting the process and will share any media coverage and resources on our website.

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