Story Pole is a 35-minute documentary that follows the remarkable story of Jason LaClair, a Native American artist from the Pacific Northwest, as he restores a story pole started by an elder from his community, Samuel Cagey II. The film is a reflection on his life as he recovers from drug addiction, and finds healing in his art and community. His journey leads him into the public school district, where he teaches young people about his people’s history, art and healing.

Guided by respected Lummi elder, Samuel Cagey’s teachings and personal stories, Jason learns the deeper meaning behind cedar carving and integrates these lessons into his own work.

The completed story pole becomes a symbol of connection, respect, and unity, carrying the stories of animals, water, and creation, reminding us of our shared purpose and interconnectedness.

Story Pole is a moving tribute to
indigenous culture
finding community, and the enduring power of traditional teachings.

It is a story of learning, respect, and the bonds that unite us all, filmed on the sacred land of Lummi Nation and in the heart of Bellingham, Washington. As indigenous values and teachings are brought into communities who are still finding out Native Americans still practice their traditional teachings of carving and painting Coast Salish art.

In Story Pole, Jason Laclair follows the teachings of Samuel Cagey II, not only learning how to carve but how traditional teachings of gratitude and working with the community build ever lasting relationships.

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.