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City of Lethbridge adopts Blackfoot word “Oki” as official greeting

The City of Lethbridge now has an official greeting.

Council voted unanimously Monday to adopt “Oki” which is a traditional Blackfoot greeting meaning “hello” or “welcome.”

Mayor Chris Spearman brought forward the official business resolution saying it’s an important first step toward honouring the original peoples of the land the city is built on.

He adds it’s a very positive thing and we, as a community, can only move forward from here.

Spearman says it’s important to acknowledge how big of a role language plays in continuing the Blackfoot culture in Lethbridge.

City Council has also instructed administration to prepare a submission to the next Capital Improvement Program .. to identify opportunities to incorporate Blackfoot and other Indigenous languages within City facilities, parks, and neighbourhoods.

Oki project in front of City Hall for Reconciliation Week 2019. Photo credit MyLethbridgeNow.com (Tina Karst)
Tina Karst
Tina Karst
A Lethbridge College alumnus, Tina moved back to the community two years after convocation, in September 2007, to become a member of the CJOC News Team. She started as a weekend reporter/anchor and now serves as Associate News Director. When Tina's not tracking down local news, she's either busy at home with Jordan and their two kids or creating custom macrame pieces for a growing list of clients.
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