Legislation was introduced today for second reading in the House of Assembly on renaming Red Indian Lake. The proposed Bill seeks to rename the Central Newfoundland body of water as Beothuk Lake.

The new proposed name was the choice following a review of suggested names and viewpoints conducted by the Provincial Government in consultation and in collaboration with Indigenous leaders in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Government carried out a consultation process to receive feedback from residents of the Red Indian Lake area, interested organizations, and other members of the public. This included in-person meetings and receiving input by email, regular email and through engageNL.

Government and Indigenous leaders share the view that Indigenous place names contribute to Reconciliation, as well as the diversity, inclusion, revitalization and strengthening of Indigenous histories, languages and cultures.

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“The goal of the consultation process was to ensure that everyone who had a viewpoint on the name of Red Indian Lake had an opportunity to share their thoughts. Upon reviewing the input received with Indigenous leaders, we arrived at a decision that a new name for the lake, Beothuk Lake, honours the Beothuk people and the significance of their legacy.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

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Learn more
News Release: Consultations Launched on Naming Red Indian Lake

Joint Statement on Consultations on Renaming Red Indian Lake

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Media contact
Allan Bock
Office of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
709-896-4449, 899-6446
allanbock@gov.nl.ca