In Wisconsin, one of the state's most stunning natural features is the "Devil's Lake." However, this title departs from its original name, which carries profound significance for the Native American community. The Ho-Chunk Nation, the original inhabitants of the area, call this sacred body of water "Day-wa-kun-chunk," meaning "Sacred Lake" or "Spirit Lake."

The Impact of Name-Changing on the Original People

The renaming of Day-wa-kun-chunk to "Devil's Lake" is more than just a switch of titles; it represents the erasure and marginalization of indigenous culture and belief systems. When colonizers altered the name, they stripped away layers of rich cultural, spiritual, and historical significance deeply rooted in the Ho-Chunk community.

The name "Devil's Lake," cast in a somewhat negative and menacing light, obfuscates the lake's sacred meaning for the Ho-Chunk people. Such erasures perpetuate systemic imbalances, whether in names of places or distorted accounts of history. They not only silence the stories and perspectives of indigenous people but also invalidate their spiritual relationship with the land.

Language as a Tool for Inclusion or Exclusion

Language plays a significant role in shaping our perception of reality, belonging, and even our identities. When we consciously choose names and terminologies that reflect respect and understanding for all communities and their histories, we foster an environment of subtle acts of inclusion. In contrast, when we perpetuate names or terms that marginalize or misrepresent particular groups, we create an atmosphere of exclusion and invalidation.

Consider the names of places, monuments, or even everyday language in the workplace—these can either honor a rich tapestry of cultures and histories or perpetuate harmful stereotypes and erasures. In organizational consulting, where the aim is often to improve workplace culture, recognizing the importance of respectful and inclusive language is vital. Words and names carry the weight of historical context, and being mindful of this can pave the way for creating safe and brave spaces in the workplace and beyond.

Reclaiming Names and Narratives

Recently, there has been a push towards reclaiming indigenous names for landmarks and places. This practice is about reverting to original names and acknowledging the stories, cultures, and lives intricately tied to these names. In this effort, we can all play a part, whether it's by advocating for the adoption of indigenous names or by promoting awareness about why this change is crucial.

We must recognize language's role in these goals as we strive for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Names matter. Words matter. They have the power to either uphold systems of inequality or dismantle them.

Let's be mindful of the names we use, honor the stories behind them, and actively participate in creating physical, social, and emotional spaces where everyone feels they truly belong.

Resources

Learning about the importance of names, language, and cultural heritage in fostering an environment of inclusion is an ongoing journey. Below are some resources across different mediums that can deepen your understanding of this topic:

Books

  1. "An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States" by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz: This book provides a comprehensive look at the history of Native Americans and their relationship with their land.
  2. "Decolonizing Methodologies: Research and Indigenous Peoples" by Linda Tuhiwai Smith: This book explores the impact of research on indigenous communities and advocates for a more equitable approach.
  3. "Identity and Language Learning" by Bonny Norton: This book delves into the importance of language in shaping our identities and fostering inclusion or exclusion.

Websites and Articles

  1. Native Land Digital: This online resource allows you to enter an address and find out about the indigenous history of the land. It's an excellent starting point for understanding the original names of locations.
  2. Reclaiming Native Truth: This project aims to change the narrative about Native Americans. The site offers numerous guides and reports.

Documentaries and Films

  1. "Reel Injun": This documentary explores the portrayal of Native Americans in Hollywood and how it has contributed to stereotypes.
  2. "Dawnland": This film focuses on the forced removal of indigenous children from their families and the ongoing efforts at truth and reconciliation.

Podcasts

  1. "All My Relations": Hosted by Matika Wilbur and Adrienne Keene, this podcast explores what it means to be a modern Native American.
  2. "Code Switch": This NPR podcast tackles issues of race and identity, often delving into topics that concern language and representation.