Our Sacred Obligation is a 24-minute documentary that tells a story older than the dams, deeper than the riverbeds, and louder than steel turbines. It’s the story of the Yurok people and their fierce, sovereign love for the Klamath River — a river they’ve cared for since before the word “ownership” ever touched this land.

This film walks us through a history of harm — from land grabs to concrete barriers — but it also lifts up a present-day resistance rooted in cultural memory, generational strength, and the fierce belief that healing is not just possible, it’s necessary.

Inspired by the victory of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe in restoring the Elwha River, Our Sacred Obligation chronicles how the Yurok are moving to restore balance — by removing dams, restoring salmon, and reclaiming their role as protectors of the water.

This film isn’t just a story. It’s a tool. A rally cry. A medicine bundle of memory and momentum. With this project, we aim to:

Strengthen unity among tribal leaders around the vision of restored rivers

Grow public support for dam removal and ecological justice

Connect Native communities across watersheds

Spark pride in Indigenous legacy — and hope for what’s ahead

FILM CREW

CHARACTERS

The film also highlights Jason’s collaboration with local schools, particularly within the Bellingham Public Schools, where he introduces students to Native American culture and the role of art in healing. Through these collaborations, the film advocates for the integration of Native American teachings and art into the public school curriculum, as well as the importance of ensuring that more Native American art is displayed in public spaces.

Through his story, Story Pole aims to achieve several key goals:

  • Advocate for the funding and integration of the Since Time Memorial Mandate curriculum, which emphasizes Native American history and culture in schools.

  • Inspire and encourage those in recovery from substance use disorder to continue their journey toward healing, while also motivating those still struggling to seek treatment.

  • Foster the recognition and incorporation of more Native American art in public spaces, enriching the cultural landscape for everyone.

  • Strengthen the connections between Native American communities, public schools, healthcare providers, and social services to create a more supportive, healing environment for all.

Story Pole is a film about resilience, healing, and the power of cultural traditions to bring about personal and community transformation. It reminds us that, like the story pole itself, we too can be rebuilt, restored, and made whole again through connection, understanding, and the support of our community.

FILM SYNOPSIS

  • An unfinished cedar story pole stood as a silent symbol of the past, it's intricate carvings waiting to be completed. Started by elder Samuel Cagey II, it had long been stalled, but the moment Jason LaClair, an artist on his own path of recovery, took up the task to finish it, the pole came alive. With each chisel strike, the cedar seemed to breathe, its story unfolding through Jason's hands. What began as a solitary effort quickly grew into a community-wide endeavor. The unfinished pole called others to join—students, elders, and even a film crew, all touched by its power. Together, they added layers to the pole's story. The students found purpose in the work, the elders shared wisdom, and the community experienced the healing and connection that comes from honoring tradition. As the pole was completed, it transformed from a simple carving into a living symbol of love, gratitude, and unity. The effort snowballed into a beautiful reminder that even an unfinished piece of wood could create bonds that span generations, where each person’s contribution became part of a shared story—a story of healing, togetherness, and the power of cultural tradition.