The Oki sign at Lethbridge City Hall. (Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Oki to Lethbridge News Now!

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

Sep 17, 2019 | 10:56 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – On the second day of Reconciliation Week festivities, Lethbridge City Council voted to incorporate the area’s Indigenous lineage into its official lingo.

Oki, pronounced OH-KEE, is the Blackfoot word for “greetings” or “welcome”.

Mayor Chris Spearman explains that Oki was chosen because it is a simple word that anyone can say, has positive connotations, and invites people to talk to each other and build connections.

Above all else, the mayor was very pleased with the level of support this motion received.

“I’m really proud of council that the vote was unanimous. I’m very grateful for the support of the Reconciliation Advisory Committee – they’ve done tremendous work.”

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The Committee’s Co-Chair Amanda Scout was in attendance and spoke about the symbolic importance of recognizing the Blackfoot language in this way.

“It’s a small thing, but it’s actually a big deal because the Blackfoot language is a thousand years old at least, and to hear people using that greeting in the language of this land, of course it touches us and makes us feel that we’re part of this community and we are moving forward.”

Councillor Mark Campbell said he loves being able to incorporate the area’s Indigenous heritage, adding that he believes Oki could become “our Aloha”.

The motion from council also recommended that the Committee and city administration “continue to explore opportunities to promote the use and recognition of Blackfoot and other Indigenous languages in our community”.

Scout believes this should be an easy opportunity for the city and for the public to take advantage of.

“Businesses, you can use that as you greet customers, you can put it on your signs. That just shows Indigenous peoples that they’re welcome and they’re a part of this community.”

Administrative staff will also be directed to work on a submission for the next Capital Improvement Program to look at options for incorporating Indigenous languages in public facilities, parks, and neighbourhoods.