Jewell James

Jewell James (born February 2, 1953; also known as Praying Wolf, Sit ki kadem, and Tse Sealth) is a Lummi Nation master carver of totem poles, author, and an environmental activist. He is a descendant of Chief Seattle.

James attended the University of Washington in the early 1970s, studying political science. In 1994, James was a leader in the first pan-tribal meeting, which featured 300 tribes conversing with President Bill Clinton at the White House.

James carves totems from ancient western red cedar trees, these totems are sacred objects in Lummi culture and help with healing and storytelling. Prior to the cutting of these trees, a prayers ceremony happens. The creation of a single totem can take up to 1,000 hours of labor, in order to carve and paint. James is featured in the documentary film A Common Destiny: Walking in Both Worlds (1990; Mystic Fire Video).

In July 2021, the House of Tears participated in the "Red Road to DC", where a single Lummi-carved 25-ft tall totem pole was created to inspire the United States government to protect Native American sacred sites. The "Red Road to DC" totem traveled for two weeks to Washington D.C. making stop overs across the nation and inspiring local prayer ceremonies.

Publications