Wonscotonach Parklands Naming Review - by Councillor Paula Fletcher, seconded by Councillor Frances Nunziata

This led to an unclear direction on how to proceed. In 2024, a new naming process, the Port Lands Indigenous Place Naming Initiative, with a guiding philosophy of Akinomaagewin (the earth as our teacher), was undertaken for the island and park name in the Port Lands at the far south end of this parkland system. Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, language speakers, youth and community members connected over seven rich and engaging circles to culminate their process with raising the name Biidaasige Park, as well as the name Ookwemin Minising for the areas. Item EX18.3 was adopted unanimously by Council in November 2024. Through the circle discussions of the Port Lands Indigenous Place Naming Initiative, the larger context of the river and watershed were discussed and the Anishnaabemowin spelling of the likely anglicized "Wonscotonach" name for the area of the Lower Don River was shared as Waasayishkodenayosh, (bright fire point or burning bright point or a point cleared by fire). With additional knowledge, perspectives and stories regarding Indigenous languages and names for the area coming forward, there is the opportunity to engage Indigenous communities through a language circle, to review Wonscotonach and to determine the culturally appropriate name for the Lower Don Parkland system moving forward. Funding for this is available from the Parks, Forestry and Recreation Capital Budget for Indigenous Placemaking. A collaborative planning process for the same parkland system area with Indigenous partners is proposed to follow, and be informed by, the naming review. This matter is considered urgent as advancing Indigenous naming is essential to meet our Truth and Reconciliation commitments and to begin the work on the Master Plan for this exciting new park.