New street signs in Fort Frances replace Colonization Road

FORT FRANCES, Ont. — The installation of new street signs in Fort Frances marks the culmination of a prolonged effort by proponents of reconciliation in the community.

Last year, town council voted 4-3 to change the name of Colonization Road out of respect for the Indigenous people of the area.

Signs are going up to show that Colonization Road West is now Sunset Drive.

It's a nod both to the region and to the Sunset Country Métis people of Fort Frances.

Signs are also being erected to show that Colonization Road East has been changed to Agamiing Drive to honour the Anishinaabe people.

The old street markers will be given to the Fort Frances Museum, the Manitou Mounds Interpretive Centre and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg.

The City of Dryden also decided last year to change the name of Colonization Avenue to Boozhoo Avenue and Memorial Avenue.

Boozhoo is Ojibway for 'welcome'.