Restoration begins after culturally significant house post is vandalized on Port Moody trail

Restoration work is beginning after a house post on the Shoreline Trail boardwalk in Port Moody was vandalized. The post, which represents matriarchal lineage and wisdom, was damaged in what police are treating as an arson-related incident.

Port Moody Police received a call shortly after 8 a.m. The damage likely occurred Thursday night or Friday morning, police said. Const. Sam Zacharias, the department’s media relations officer, said the damage was limited to the lower portion of the post but had a major impact because of its cultural significance. Officers have increased patrols on Shoreline Trail, and police are asking anyone with information to contact PMPD.

Artist TsuKwalton (Jonas Jones) said someone vandalized parts of the boardwalk and attempted to burn the pole. He said it can be refurbished, while describing the incident as a reminder that racism remains “very real.”

The post, titled Sí7la – Grandmother and designed by Damian George Sr., is intended to honour matriarchs. Jones said he felt the work was stronger than the person who tried to burn it, and that its spirit remained vibrant as it awaits repair and a future celebration.

The City of Port Moody has pledged to support the artist with restoration. The city said the damage to the culturally significant work extends beyond what is physically visible. Installed at Pigeon Cove in September 2025, the post is intended to restore reverence for Mother Earth and honour all Life Givers as sacred beings.