What’s In a Name
To recognize the link between EALT lands and Indigenous Peoples, and the link between language and traditional culture, EALT began considering how to feature Nehiyawewin (Cree) names for select conservation lands. Amiskwaciy Academy was also very interested in a Nehiyawewin (Cree) naming project, and after consultation with Elders and staff, they suggested a collaboration with MacEwan University, with whom they share an Indigenous Studies dual credit program.
Both amiskwaciy Academy and MacEwan University were enthusiastic about not only the study opportunity for students, but about the sense of responsibility and pride which could be generated in this examination of the land and their traditional roots, and the significance of names. EALT turned over the determination of the Nehiyawewin (Cree) name entirely to them.
The first step was to select the specific conservation area to be given a Nehiyawewin (Cree) name, and then to develop a process which would be practical, and be appropriate for naming. The land selected was Glory Hills, 110 acres of lakes, wetlands and woods north of Stony Plain, which supports a wide variety of plant and animal life.
The process included guidance by Elders, considerable background research, examining the inventory of species that EALT had compiled, researching the uses of various plants and their cultural significance, holding discussions, and organizing a student field trip to the land itself, to get a real ‘feel’ for the land and how it ‘spoke’ to them. After arriving at a few names, they consulted with their Elders, before finally selecting a name.
maskihkîy meskanaw
This was the final name selected for Glory Hills. The students then prepared a power point and presented their process to EALT staff and Directors, each taking turns in describing the naming process and their experiences on the land.
They described how the rich variety of native species found at Glory Hills inspired them to give the site the Nehiyawewin (Cree) name maskihkîy meskanaw, since it means Medicine Trail.
They were clearly delighted to work on this project which had great significance for them, and felt a responsibility to respond well to the challenge, looked forward to showing their families the land, and even designed a custom sign in their wood shop. They also presented this project, which was the focus of an entire semester, at MacEwan’s Student Research Day.
