Dozens attend the Indigenous naming ceremony at the new Coaldale RCMP detachment, January 24, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Coaldale RCMP blessed with Indigenous name, “Red Coat Lodge”

Jan 24, 2023 | 3:34 PM

COALDALE, AB – The new Coaldale RCMP detachment has been given an Indigenous name.

A ceremony was held at the building on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, following the building’s opening in 2021.

Elder Peter Strikes With A Gun from the Piikani First Nation gave a blessing, lead prayers, and bestowed the name Red Coat Lodge onto the building.

He explains that there was a time where Indigenous people were suffering from disease, famine, and the introduction of alcohol. An organization called the Red Coat Society was formed, bringing about hope and change.

“I’m the last of that society,” says Strikes With A Gun. “I felt, to continue understanding our relationship with the crown was very honourable to the peoples at that time. When they came together, we had sacred acquaintances and hope that things were going to be [improving].”

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Strikes With A Gun says the name is fitting as the RCMP have been doing their part to rectify their historic relationship with Indigenous peoples, and now represent hope rather than despair.

Coaldale RCMP Detachment Commander Mike Numan says he loves the name, especially since Strikes With A Gun was able to relate it to his past and the past of many Indigenous peoples.

He says the Alberta RCMP is “100 per cent committed” to improving its relationships with Indigenous peoples and other groups.

Numan believes the name also serves as a reminder that the RCMP is here for the protection of everyone.

“This is a brand new detachment, kind of a new start for us. If we can start this way and have those good relations with the Elders and the people that have the wisdom in the First Nations, I think it’s a great way to initiate and keep those talks going,” says Numan.

The ceremony included speeches from other officials including Alberta RCMP Commissioner Curtis Zablocki, Coaldale Mayor Jack Van Rijn, and more.

It also entailed prayers, songs, dances, a smudging ceremony, and gift presentation.

READ MORE: Sod turning ceremony held at site for new Coaldale RCMP Detachment

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