Memorial pole to be dedicated in honor of Native woodcarver

Tuesday, August 30, 2011  

A memorial totem pole is being dedicated today in honor of John T. Williams, a traditional woodcarver who was shot to death by a police officer in Seattle, Washington, on August 30, 2010.

The pole was carved by one of Williams' brothers, other family members and friends. Located at Waterfront Park at Pier 57, it features figures and symbols that John Williams, who was a member of the Dididaht First Nation of British Columbia, used in his own works.

"What I want this totem pole to stand for is healing and calm," brother Rick Williams told The Seattle Times. "I want to give people hope. The eagle above, on the top of this pole, it's saying there's peace."

The officer who fired the fatal shots was fired by the police department. The city agreed to pay $1.5 million to Williams' estate.

The Department of Justice opened a preliminary investigation into Seattle's police force after the shooting.

Get the Story:
Blessing ceremony Tuesday for pole honoring slain carver (The Seattle Times 8/30)

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