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9/11 Healing Totem Poles.

9/11 Healing Totem Poles

Field review by the editors.

Washington, DC

Jewel Praying Wolf James, master carver from the Lummi Nation in Washington State, created several totem poles in the belief that they would help people heal from the trauma of 9/11. These three -- named Liberty and Freedom, joined at the top by Sovereignty -- were erected outside the Pentagon in September, 2004.

The carving contains much symbolism, even in the choice of paint colors. On the poles' way to Washington, they made stops in nearly 40 American Indian Nations where they were prayed over and blessed.

The poles were eventually moved from the Pentagon to Congressional Cemetery. According to an accompanying plaque, this relocation was perfectly acceptable, because the poles "also represent those interred here from twelve different American Indian tribes -- most of whom died in Washington, DC, negotiating treaties or conducting business with the U.S. government."

Also see: Congressional Cemetery

9/11 Healing Totem Poles

Congressional Cemetery

Address:
1801 E. St. SE, Washington, DC
Directions:
Walk into the cemetery at the intersection of Potomac Ave. SE and E St. SE. Walk straight in. Walk straight past the chapel, then turn right at the next path. You'll see the Totem Poles ahead.
Hours:
Daylight daily; gated after hours. Office M-F 9-5. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
202-543-0539
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