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.
