Latest News on Name Change

Since launching my initiative in February, I've heard from a number of Northerners.  Some of their comments can be found on the [Your Views] page.  Many oppose the idea although some are supportive.  Generally, I've found responses to be thoughtful -- if sometimes strongly worded!  See below for a sample of my response to one of those letters.

However, there are many voices waiting to be heard.  I hope this web-site will give more people the opportunity to express their opinion.

One conclusion I've reached is that this initiative may take much longer than I originally thought.  As well, it should be pursued in a low-key manner with as little expense as possible.  This web-site is one way to do that.  I've also begun preparation of a presentation that I will be able to give whenever my regular business travel within the NWT allows.  I'm currently working on several background papers that I will post here as they are complete.

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Sample response

Thank you for providing your response to my initiative to find a new name for the Northwest Territories .  One of my goals was to stimulate debate on this topic so I appreciate your involvement.  I expect to hear a wide range of opinions both for and against and value them all.  I’ve tried to provide people with the historical context for this debate and will visit schools and community leaders as part of my regular travel in the North.  In the end, I am not the one who will make this decision.  Rather it will be up to the people of the Northwest Territories to decide collectively whether to make a change and, if so, what that change will be.

The role of a Senator is not like that of a Member of Parliament or a territorial MLA.  I am not directly involved in developing government programs.  Instead, I am here to influence the broad shape of government policy and legislation for the benefit of the NWT and for Canadians generally.  In any given week, I may be involved with legislation affecting the implementation of land claims, the reform of health care or changes to the criminal code.  I also sit on Senate committees that in the past year have looked at the plight of urban aboriginal youth and the implementation of the Kyoto Accord, making recommendations that will improve government policy and programs in these key areas.  Often the issues we deal with are very big; other times they are small and particular to a place or a group of people.  Both are important and necessary for the well-being of the country.

Changing the name of the NWT may seem less important than the big issues of pipelines and health care systems but I believe that a new inclusive name for the NWT can bring real benefits such as a greater sense of unity and pride for northerners and increased interest in our region by others.  A bigger role in Canada and increased economic development in the North could both result.  I believe this could be accomplished with a modest investment, or even within current budgets, if it is done in a logical and well-reasoned manner.  As Northerners, we sometimes get focused on our own small world, but sometimes it is useful to think how others in the South see us.  A distinctive name can help redefine us in their eyes and contribute to the political and social evolution of the North. 

In any case, it will be up to residents to decide and I welcome your participation in the debate.