10/12/2026
🌲 Honoring Indigenous Peoples’ Day: The Western Redcedar
For generations, Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest have maintained a deep cultural and spiritual relationship with the Western Redcedar. Among some Pacific Northwest nations, cedar has been known as the “Tree of Life,” reflecting its importance to community, culture, and everyday life.
The Kwakwaka'wakw and other Pacific Northwest peoples traditionally used Western Redcedar for canoes, longhouses, clothing, tools, artwork, and medicine. Cedar bark and wood were carefully harvested for what was needed, reflecting a relationship with the tree based on respect, gratitude, and stewardship.
Some traditions refer to the cedar as “Grandmother Cedar,” recognizing the tree as something to be respected rather than simply a resource.
At Shier’s Family Tree Care Service, we believe caring for trees means understanding their value—not only to our landscapes, but to the cultures, histories, and communities that have valued them for generations.
Today, we honor Indigenous peoples, their living traditions, and their enduring relationship with the natural world. 🌲
Happy Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
