Your new map of OCN is something special
Morning from the Gateway — here's what's moving in The Pas.
You know, sometimes the stories that really stick with you aren't the big political fights or the dramatic accidents. Sometimes it's the quiet, powerful acts that resonate deepest. That's how I feel about this news from Opaskwayak Cree Nation: they've unveiled a massive new map, eight metres square, that meticulously restores traditional Cree place names across their territory. It features over 150 names, many of which haven't been widely seen or used in generations. This isn't just a map; it's a reclaiming of history, a teaching tool, and a profound statement of identity.
### Why This Matters for Us
This isn't just an OCN story; it's a Pas story. Our communities are intertwined, literally sharing land and history along the Saskatchewan River. For too long, the Cree names for these places were forgotten or sidelined by settler names. Think about it: every river, every lake, every ridge had a name long before our current maps.
* **Cultural Restoration:** This map brings back that knowledge, making sure future generations know the true names and the stories behind them. * **Education for Everyone:** It's a chance for all of us, OCN and The Pas residents alike, to learn more about the land we share. Imagine learning the Cree name for Clearwater Lake, or the stretch of river near Tolko. * **Strengthening Identity:** For OCN, it's about grounding themselves even more deeply in their ancestral territory, reinforcing their connection to this land.
This map is a gift, really, a chance to see our home through a lens that was almost lost. It reminds us that The Pas has been a gateway for centuries, and part of understanding that is respecting the names and history that predate all of us. This is the kind of legacy work that will shape how we understand our home for generations to come.
Phil Flett, MiTL Sports Desk, The Pas.
My colleagues are always talking about stuff like this. Tune into the morning show live at mornings.live.