­­­­ The Southeast Regional Health Consortium’s domestic violence program is presenting its “Healing Pole” in front of the Chilkat Valley Arts Building at noon Friday.

Organized by SEARHC staffer Jackie Mazeikas and artist Sue Folletti, the pole will be constructed of individual canisters designed by local artists. The canisters will be stacked on an existing flagpole at the Willard St. building. “It will be the most unique pole we have ever seen,” said Mazeikas.

The pole will be topped with the program’s new logo, designed by Sue Folletti. Butch Phillips carved the piece, which features two pairs of hands holding a heart and the words “for healing our spirit” in English and Tlingit.

“It’s community owned, and that makes it so special,” said Mazeikas. “When people see it, victims who are suffering from abuse will know they are not alone. Seventy-five percent of Alaskans have experienced domestic violence, or know someone who has, so it touches all of us.”

The celebration will also include the unveiling of a 36” drum commissioned by SEARHC and designed by local craftsman Dave “Stitch” Phillips.

The Domestic Violence program is organizing the Friday gathering, which will include a cookout with hamburgers, hotdogs and salad. Participants are asked to bring a potluck dish. For more information, call Mazeikas at 766-6382.