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Ottawa Citizen

Kiweki Point: Official unveiling of an Ottawa jewel

Kiweki Point has officially reopened as a reimagined public space in downtown Ottawa, blending Indigenous culture with nature at the junction of the Ottawa, Rideau and Gatineau rivers. Article content Article content The $45-million redevelopment was partially funded through the $228.6 million allocated to the National Capital Commission by the federal government between 2018 and 2023. Work began in 2019. Article content Article content The project was celebrated with an opening ceremony attended by Ottawa-area MPs Mona Fortier and Yasir Naqvi, Indigenous elders, NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum, Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and representatives of the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council. Article content Article content Stakeholders and community members gathered behind the National Gallery of Canada for the unveiling of the renewed site once known as Nepean Point. Article content Fortier, the MP for Ottawa-Vanier-Gloucester, described the project as 'an important step on the path of reconciliation.' Article content 'By thoughtfully incorporating Indigenous voices into its design and interpretation, this site fosters understanding, healing and mutual respect. It reminds us that reconciliation is not a one-time event, but a lasting commitment,' she said. Article content Merv Sarazin, a council member with the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, said the reimagined space reflected years of collective work. Article content 'We acknowledge the hard work and collaboration that brought this vision to life. We honour those who contribute their time, knowledge and resources,' Sarazin said. 'May the space serve as a place of learning, gathering and reflection.' Article content Article content Indigenous symbolism was incorporated throughout the development, including extensive collaboration with the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nations and Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg. Article content 'At the heart of this transformation is the wisdom, generosity and leadership of the Algonquin Nation,' said Norm Odjick, director general of the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council. 'Our many voices have guided every step of this process, and this space stands as a reflection of our culture, stories and enduring presence.' Article content One of the most prominent symbolic changes has been the repositioning of the Anishinaabe scout from the 1915 Samuel de Champlain statue. Originally depicted kneeling, the figure has been returned to the site standing upright. Article content 'We have brought the scout back to the site in his rightful role as guide and knowledge keeper, with the name befitting that role, Kichi Zìbì Innini, the Great River Man,' Nussbaum said. 'His presence restores balance, representing Indigenous identity and strength.'