Film tracks totem pole's journey

SANDPOINT — The documentary, “Our Sacred Obligation,” depicting the creation of a Lummi Nation’s totem pole carved in opposition to a massive coal terminal near Bellingham, Wash., will be screened in Sandpoint today at the Little Panida Theater, 300 N. First Ave.

The proposed location of the terminal is the site of the ancient Lummi Nation village and burial ground known as Xwe’chienXen. It’s also the site of the Lummi’s traditional fishing grounds. To demonstrate their opposition to the proposed massive coal terminal and to build solidarity against the increased use of coal in general, members of the Lummi Nation carved a special totem pole in 2014 and hauled it on a 22-day journey along the proposed coal-train path.

The event is hosted by the Idaho Conservation League with Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper.

The film event this Thursday, May 12 is free and open to the public. Beer, wine and theater snacks will be available for sale.

Information: www.idahoconservation.org, or call 208-265-9565