Winnipeg Sun: NDP critic for Indigenous reconciliation Ian Bushie (Keewatinook) introduced Bill 236 on Wednesday at the Manitoba Legislature alongside Carson Robinson and Zaagaate Jock and their baby Atetsenhtsén:we, which is a traditional Mohawk name.

“This bill is important for parents across the province who want to pass on traditional names to the next generation,” said NDP leader Wab Kinew in a news release. “It’s our hope that the PCs pass this bill to give parents like Zaagaate and Carson the right to have their child’s name formally recognized and honoured.”

“Manitoba is actively working on the inclusion of additional characters, including exploring potential legislative amendments,” a provincial spokesperson said at the time. “This will require consultations to ensure changes are made appropriately to meet the needs of community.

“The Vital Statistics Branch is in communication with other provinces to learn and share experiences and it is of importance for all jurisdictions to work with their federal counterparts, as they are also responsible for identity documents and inter-jurisdictional systems.”

Bushie said that naming a child is a significant moment for all parents and takes on greater meaning for Indigenous families in the wake of residential schools.

“It’s impossible to deny that the purpose of these institutions was to erase the culture, traditions and names of Indigenous children and their families,” Bushie said. If the province is committed to reconciliation, we must make changes to ensure that all parents are able to name their children according to their cultural traditions.”

Most private member’s bills do not become law as government support is needed.