Totem poles are monumental carved wooden sculptures created by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast, including Haida, Tlingit, Kwakwaka'wakw, and Coast Salish nations. Poles feature stacked figures representing family crests, clan histories, significant events, or spiritual beings. Different pole types serve various purposes—memorial poles honour deceased individuals, welcome poles greet visitors, and shame poles publicize unpaid debts or broken promises. Totem pole carving is a sophisticated art form requiring years of training. The animals and figures depicted carry specific cultural meanings understood within their communities. Totem poles were suppressed during assimilation policies but have experienced revival as part of Indigenous cultural resurgence. These poles are significant cultural heritage, not religious objects as sometimes misunderstood.