The eagle sheltering a baby in the house post symbolizes the work Kw'umut Lelum does. (Spencer Sterritt/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Spencer Sterritt

welcoming

New Kw’umut Lelum house post symbolizes protection and strength for Indigenous youth

Apr 16, 2021 | 12:57 PM

NANAIMO — Indigenous youth in need have more protection and support when seeking assistance.

A roughly 16-foot-tall house post was unveiled at Kw’umut Lelum’s Centre St. office in Snuneymuxw First Nation on Friday, April 16.

Bill Yoachim, executive director of Kw’umut Lelum, told NanaimoNewsNOW the house post is a welcoming figure in Coast Salish culture.

“It protects and guides and gives you the strength for the work you’re trying to do.”

House post carver Noel Brown, from Snuneymuxw First Nation, said it took three months to carve.

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At the bottom of the house post is an eagle sheltering a baby with its wings.

“The eagle always takes care and looks over the children at all times, which Kw’umut Lelum does,” Brown said. “Above the eagle is a lady with her blanket, which keeps the children warm. Above that is a killer whale, which looks after us at sea.”

Brown said he’s “proud and honoured” to be the steady hand carving the house post and he learns more about Coast Salish culture every time he works on one.

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spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @SpencerSterritt