Your Views

Below are excerpts from some of the letters and e-mails my proposal to change the name of the Northwest Territories has generated.  I haven't included individual names as they weren't aware when they wrote to me that their words might appear in a public place. 

I would like to thank all those who took the time to respond to me.  Your opinions do count and I take your views very seriously.

I hope this web-site will generate more response and give a better idea what the silent majority of NWT residents think.

For those who like to keep score, of the 32 responses I've had so far, 25 were opposed, five were in favour and two were neutral.  Generally, when I've had a chance to talk to people face-to-face, the response is more balanced -- but maybe people are just being nice to me!

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The results of the last attempt [to change the name] clearly demonstrated that the population at large simply did not have the appetite for renaming of the NWT at that time.... a name change [is] still not a priority for the majority of northerners.

                          Inuvialuit Regional Corporation

While a number of arguments can be put forth for renaming the Northwest Territories, councillors unanimously agreed that with so many other pressing issues, this is not the time to be making a name change.

                           Hamlet of Fort Liard

We unanimously passed a motion to oppose any name change for the Northwest Territories.... We are proud of the unique history, traditions, cultures and identity associated with the Northwest Territories the world over.

                           Town of Hay River

I continue to believe that we would benefit from a new name.  I agree with you that it must be a process and a name in which our citizens are fully involved and broadly support.  But... now is not the right time.

                            An MLA

In short it is a waste of time and 'our' money to consider such a ludicrous move.

                            Hay River resident

I beg to differ that the NWT 'is only northwest from the point of view of Ottawa.'  Except for BC and the Yukon, the Northwest Territories is generally north or west of all other parts of Canada...

                            Yellowknife resident

The general consensus of the Chamber membership is to maintain the status quo.

                            Hay River Chamber of Commerce

I think a name change could be a positive unifying experience for the NWT.  Change is usually a good thing, yet the quirky thing about human nature is our strong resistance to change.

                            Fort Resolution resident

We feel that our current name has a celebrated and proud tradition and to make a change would be counter productive to all those who came before us.

                            Hamlet of Fort MacPherson

I disagree the name should be changed.  I disagree because the name has been here since 1870 until 2004 and it is a good name.

                            Student, Fort Resolution

There is a unique history in the NWT, consistent with the pioneer spirit of all its residents current and past.... Believe me when I say I can substantiate this claim from travels throughout the world.  People know where the Northwest Territories is and what it stands for.

                            Hay River resident

It would be my view that you are absolutely right in the arguments you present....  One formulation that does come to mind is something like Inude (blending Dene and Inuvialuit names for the land).

                            Yellowknife resident

Council voted unanimously in favour of keeping the name Northwest Territories.  The decision was based on the fact that there would be considerable cost involved as well as the reality that it is not possible to encompass all aboriginal groups under one aboriginal name.

                            Town of Inuvik

I ask you to please leave our name with its history and reputation unchanged, and focus more on our many economic, social and racial problems.

                            Fort Smith resident

Everyone in my community would like to keep the name the way it is.... The Northwest Territories makes us one and that's what makes us happy.

                            Sachs Harbour resident

Here are my suggestions for a new name for Canada's Northwest Territories: Nunavut West Territory (NWT); West Farthing; Northistan; The Kingdom of Cold.  [among others]

                            Inuvik resident

I think it is silly.  We have spent years promoting the name of the NWT and I love the name.

                            Norman Wells resident

The name "Northwest Territories" has served its purpose well, and is now due for dignified retirement.... The name MacKendeh would seem to fit..