The 411 on the Red Road to D.C.

What?

A 25-foot-long, 4,900-pound totem pole is traveling across the country from the state of Washington to Washington, D.C., to build awareness about Indigenous issues and protect sacred sites.

Why?

Designed to convey the crises grappling Indigenous communities—a caged baby representing children who faced violation of human rights; red handprints indicating missing and murdered Indigenous womenfolk, this totem pole is a skillful medium for storytelling, raising awareness, and uniting communities with a shared meaning around environmental preservation and human rights enforcement.

It is a compelling invitation to people to stand in solidarity with Native Peoples in acknowledging the injustices inflicted on them over the years and unite in their fight to protect their sites and people.

Where?

The Journey, called the Red Road to D.C., is making stops at the sites of great significance to Indigenous communities. The tour covers Snake River, Bears Ears, Chaco Canyon, Black Hills, Missouri River, Standing Rock, White Rock, Mackinaw City, and will conclude at the national capital.

When?

The eventful two-week journey started on July 14 and will make its last stop on July 29 at the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI).

Who?

Created by the master carvers from the House of Tears Carvers of the Lummi Nation, the totem pole is traveling with over ten volunteers who spotlight the issues faced by Indigenous people to the public and connecting with their audiences through outreach activities along the way.


Support the Journey here.

Sign up for the tour updates here.

Visit the official website here.

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