Winnipeg, MB – The City of Winnipeg unveiled a process whereby members of the public can submit requests to create new, add to, or remove/rename historical markers and place names to resolve the absence of Indigenous perspectives, experiences, and contributions in the stories remembered and commemorated, as part of the Welcoming Winnipeg initiative.
The Welcoming Winnipeg initiative is one aspect of the reconciliation process the City is committed to, and will help ensure that the contributions, experiences, and perspectives of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit are reflected truthfully in our stories, historical markers, and place names.
“Today’s announcement is an important step forward for inclusivity in Winnipeg,” said Mayor Brian Bowman. “For over a year, the City of Winnipeg has led proactive community dialogue regarding historical markers and place names in our community and the absence of historical perspectives. I’m happy to see an official submission process now in place so that important conversations about our history will be heard.”
Any member of the public can submit an online request form, as an individual or on behalf of an organization. Those submitting the request will need to demonstrate how the proposed change contributes to a Welcoming Winnipeg and achieves a balances perspective of history, honours Indigenous people, promotes reclamation of land, or offers an educational opportunity.
All requests will be reviewed by the Committee of Community Members for City-owned assets only, excluding street naming/renaming which has its own process. The committee is tasked with making recommendations for the Executive Policy Committee/Council’s consideration and decision.
The public is welcome to provide feedback online, by phone, or by appearing as a delegation before the Committee of Community Members, Executive Policy Committee, or Council.
For more information, please see: winnipeg.ca/welcomingwinnipeg.