2021-9-7_PR_Comm Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Attachment 3 feel any offense at all, but rather view it as an honoring in some way. As you explore this renaming idea, I would suspect you will hear strong opinions from both side of the spectrum. This is not that dissimilar from the recent name change from the Washington Redskins to the Washington Football team. Strong opinions were expressed from both sides, but all have seemed to accept that change once it had been made. Roseville and Pocahontas Park exists on the traditional homeland of the Dakota people. I could see an argument made that Pocahontas is not local and that the Roseville Parks and Rec wishes to honor the local Native Community as a rational for a name change. This would bypass any debate surrounding offensiveness as a rational, that is at least among the Native perspective. I would further suggest that the park's name be replaced with a name originating from the Dakota language. Local Dakota historians and language speakers can be a resource for identifying an appropriate name and spelling. If you do chose this option, be prepared to hear strong opinions from outside of the Native community. A local example of this name change can be found in the name change from Lake Calhoun to Bde Maka Ska or the addition of the Dakota language to Fort Snelling to include at Bdote. Two excellent examples of places that struggled with the complexities of a simple name change. My advice would be to pursue the name change, but be clear with the rational for this change and articulate that rational well, you will face opposition from all sides. By changing the name, it demonstrates the Roseville Park and Rec's desire to be more inclusive of all cultures, conversely if Parks and Rec does not choose to pursue a name change it could send the message that Park and Rec accepts and condones the historical misrepresentation of Native American people. Others Native American groups you may seek out for their opinions are the Roseville Area Schools Indian Education Office and the Parent Committee they work with, the state office of Indian Education at MDE, or the MN Indian Affairs Council. These are just a few suggestions off the top of my head, I can assist to identify other groups if needed. I do hope this response helps you in your efforts, please feel free to call or email if you have any question or need further assistance,