Central Park, a beloved green space in Winnipeg, may soon be getting a new name. The proposal to rename the park has sparked a debate among residents and city officials.
The park, located in the heart of the city, has been a popular spot for picnics, walks, and outdoor activities for decades. However, its current name has been called into question due to its association with a controversial historical figure.
The park is currently named after Thomas Scott, a member of the Orange Order who was executed in 1870 for his involvement in the Red River Rebellion. The rebellion was a conflict between the Métis people and the Canadian government over land rights.
Some argue that Scott’s name should not be honored in a public space due to his involvement in the rebellion and his treatment of Indigenous peoples. Others believe that changing the name would erase an important part of history.
The proposal to rename the park was put forward by city councillor Sherri Rollins, who believes that the park should be named after someone who represents the values of the community. She suggests renaming it to “Central Park – Niizhoziibean” which means “two rivers coming together” in Ojibwe.
The proposal has received mixed reactions from residents. Some support the idea of honoring Indigenous culture and history, while others feel that changing the name would be erasing the park’s history and disrespecting the memory of Thomas Scott.
City officials are currently seeking feedback from the public before making a decision. A survey has been launched to gather opinions on the proposed name change. The results will be presented to the city council for consideration.
This is not the first time that the name of a public space in Winnipeg has been called into question. In 2019, the city renamed Bishop Grandin Boulevard to “Niizhoziibean Way” after receiving backlash for honoring a man who played a role in the residential school system.
The debate over the name change for Central Park highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring the diverse history and cultures of our communities. It also raises questions about how we choose to remember and commemorate historical figures.
As the discussion continues, it is clear that the decision to rename Central Park will not be an easy one. It is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and respect for all perspectives. The city council will have to weigh the opinions of the public and make a decision that reflects the values of the community.
