Dear Editor: The Watchman Totem project is a partnership between The Central Council of Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaskaand the State of Alaska Department of Public Safety, reflecting a shared commitment to public safety, culture and the communities served throughout Alaska.
An essential part of bringing this project to life was Sealaska’s generous donation of a red cedar log. The donated cedar provided the material from which the Watchman Totems were carved and helped make the vision for the project a reality.
The partnership with the State of Alaska Department of Public Safety and Sealaska’s contribution are foundational to the Watchman Totem project. Together, these contributions created an opportunity to bring culture and public safety together in a meaningful and lasting way.
The Watchman Totems will be unveiled 3:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, September 17, at the Alaska Law Enforcement Training Academy in Sitka.
Their placement at the academy reflects the connection between culture, protection and service, as well as the responsibility carried by law enforcement officers who train there before returning to serve communities throughout Alaska.
Tlingit & Haida extends its sincere appreciation to everyone for their support to help make the Watchman Totems possible and ensures this cultural presence will stand at the academy for generations to come.
Jason Wilson, Tlingit & Haida Public Safety Director
