City of Gatineau honoured for excellence in Toponymy

Tashi Farmilo 

The City of Gatineau has been recognized for its outstanding contributions to toponymy, receiving the prestigious Merit in Toponymy award from the Toponymy Commission. Toponymy, the study and practice of naming places, is an essential aspect of cultural heritage, reflecting the history, values, and diversity of a community.

In recent years, Gatineau's toponymy committee has implemented a comprehensive work plan focused on adopting unifying and diverse toponymic practices. A significant portion of this plan has been dedicated to increasing the representation of women and First Nations in the city's place names. This initiative has led to the assignment of numerous names honouring important local figures, with a notable emphasis on recognizing the contributions of women.

The city's commitment to enriching its toponymic landscape is further demonstrated by the creation of a dedicated toponymy section on its website. This resource includes a comprehensive bank of toponyms, a form for proposing new place names, a detailed procedure for requesting name changes, and a frequently asked questions section. This online platform facilitates community engagement and ensures transparency in the city's naming processes.

The Merit in Toponymy award was presented to Gatineau in recognition of these significant achievements. Gilles Chagnon and Sonia Blouin, representing the City of Gatineau, accepted the award from Jean-François Roberge, Minister of the French Language, at a ceremony celebrating the city's contributions to Quebec's toponymic heritage.

This accolade underscores Gatineau's leadership in fostering a toponymic environment that honours its diverse history and cultural legacy. The city's innovative approach serves as a model for other municipalities seeking to enhance their own toponymic practices.

Photo caption: The City of Gatineau, represented by Gilles Chagnon and Sonia Blouin, received the Merit in Toponymy award from Jean-François Roberge, Minister of the French Language, in recognition of its efforts to promote diverse and inclusive place naming practices. 

Photo credit: Courtesy of the Quebec Office of the French Language