Although the decision to change the name of John A. Macdonald Road was made by City Council last month, today (Wed) was the final official step where a bylaw was passed to allow for the re-naming to miyo-wâhkôhtowin Road (pronounced meeyo wah KOH toh WIN).
Councillors Randy Donauer, Darren Hill and Bev Dubois opposed the motion, saying the processes were flawed and there wasn’t enough engagement. One resident spoke to the re-naming at Council. Mary Fedun believes there wasn’t enough public engagement compared to what their was with the new library and Transit changes. “We haven’t been listened to. We have not been able to use the process, and I use that term very loosely.”
The City’s General Manager, Lynn Lacroix, says there was a public meeting and the naming committee included a broad representation of the neighbourhood with a resident from the street, community associations, and those with lived experience of residential schools. They aren’t publicly named, because some were concerned about push back from the public. Administration is working on a guidebook for residents which sets out the next steps and includes the correct spelling and pronunciation. There will also be small group sessions and one-on-one sessions for those affected on John A. MacDonald Road, because residents won’t have to cover the cost of an address change.
Councillor Mairin Loewen said at the meeting that she understands that process has been complicated and hasn’t met with some of the public’s satisfaction, but to those who think the name change tries to erase Canada’s history, she suggests a name change can’t do that. “I do not believe John A MacDonald meets the test of deserving a place of honour in the community of Saskatoon. I also think there is zero risk of John A. MacDonald being forgotten by history because of this name change.”
General Manager Lacroix adds that there is a current policy for naming streets, parks and civic facilities, but Administration is creating a legacy review to look at the naming, recognition and celebration of histories of Indigenous peoples and other diverse communities in Saskatoon.
