Stoney Nakoda celebrates name change of Alberta mountain landmark
Posted August 23, 2021 3:46 pm.
Last Updated August 24, 2021 8:50 pm.
CANMORE — The Alberta government says a prominent landmark in the Rocky Mountains has been renamed in the spirit of reconciliation.
The feature near the summit of Mount Charles Stewart has had what many consider to be a racist and misogynistic nickname since the 1920s.
The formation, visible from the mountain town of Canmore, will now be known by its original name Anu Katha Ipa, or Bald Eagle Peak.
WATCH: CityNews’ Jonathan Muma reports on people calling for the name change of a mountain near Canmore after concerns were raised about the landmark’s nickname being considered racist.
It is the traditional name used by the Stoney Nakoda Nation.
“This is an important step in reconcili-action,” said Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson in a statement.
“We must recognize and celebrate Indigenous culture and the traditional names that reflect the true meaning and history of the land. We must understand the past and honour these sacred places so we can continue to teach future generations about their ancestors and the places that connect them.”
In a statement, Chiniki First Nation Chief Aaron Young says the Stoney Nakoda people have a “deep and lasting respect” for women in their community and are happy the racist term has been cast aside.
An official name change means the landmark will be updated on provincial and federal place name databases and maps.
The Alberta government also says that work is continuing to rename another mountain in Banff National Park which the Stoney Nakoda Nation and other Indigenous communities have said is offensive.
“Alberta’s government agrees. As this mountain peak resides in a national park, the Government of Alberta and Parks Canada are working with Indigenous communities to identify a new name.”
