Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Kingston officially launched the naming campaign for the Third Crossing, which will seek to recognize and honour Indigenous culture and history in Kingston and area.
“We know that as a City we need to broaden our understanding of Kingston’s history by incorporating more Indigenous stories, and to facilitate a community dialogue that prioritizes reconciliation,” says Mayor Paterson.
“The naming of the new bridge is one step towards these important goals. It will encourage further conversation and education and is an exciting opportunity to celebrate the contributions of the local Indigenous community.”
In July 2020, Kingston City Council committed to naming what is now called ‘the Third Crossing’ in a way that reflects and celebrates the stories and contributions of Indigenous communities, both past and present.
“The City of Kingston is proud to celebrate the history of Indigenous peoples who have been caretakers of these lands since time immemorial,” says Jennifer Campbell, Manager of Cultural Heritage. “As a city, we are committed to strengthening our relationships with Nations, Indigenous Communities and Indigenous residents and continuing to work in partnership along a shared path.”
The naming consultation will begin with discussions with Indigenous Nations with historical and enduring ties to the area, including Alderville First Nation and Tyendinaga Mohawk Council, as well as with interested members of the local Indigenous community. This will be followed by a broader consultation with Kingston residents around proposed names and their meanings.
Community input will then be brought back to the Nations, Indigenous communities and Indigenous residents and a name will be selected and then shared with City Council for affirmation through a report by the end of 2021.
The consultation process on the naming is the responsibility of the City of Kingston and is being facilitated with the support of First Peoples Group.
“We are excited to be guiding the engagement for the naming of the Third Crossing and are looking forward to working with Nations, Indigenous residents and Kingston community members to bring forward a name that honours Indigenous culture and history and that reflects the meaningful relationships being built in Kingston,” said Melissa Hammell, vice president First Peoples Group.
The city is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation. The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land. Learn more about the City’s reconciliation initiatives.
