City adopts Place Identity Framework

The City of Saskatoon is pleased to announce the adoption of a new Place Identity Framework to guide future place identity and place naming initiatives. City Council adopted the Place Identity Framework on May 21, 2025.
 

The purpose of the Framework is to work with all residents to explore the shared understanding that we all have about our home. The Framework will be a guide to how the City names public spaces, and will guide decisions on public art, commemoration and monuments including what cultural symbols, flags, emblems and coats of arms will be displayed. 
 

“The Place Identity Framework recognizes that not everyone has been included in how the City of Saskatoon has identified and visually represented itself,” says Stryker Calvez, Director of Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (REDI). “This is especially important for those who have called this place home since time immemorial. This framework acknowledges the inherent rights of Indigenous Peoples, those people raised here, and the newcomers who chose to make it their home. We all contribute to Saskatoon and, therefore, should have a say in the making of its identity.”

Place identity will have four guiding principles within the wider context of existing City policies, plans, projects and related initiatives:

• Build relationships- Commit to creating and sustaining relationships with residents, rights holders, stakeholders and community organizations to build a greater sense of place, identity and community.
• Be informed- Understand that place naming and place identity are informed by traditional knowledge, historical research and community insights.
• Be inclusive- Listen to the diverse perspectives and experiences of the residents of this city and commit to public input, transparency, education and communication when it comes to place identity.

• Be relevant- Understand our stories of Saskatoon and what connects us historically and balance that with celebrating our local culture when it comes to place naming, commemoration and symbols.
   

  Implementation of the Framework will include working with community and multiple internal departments within the City of Saskatoon to integrate place identity practices at the earliest stages when it comes to the planning of new public spaces. 
   

  “This is about recognizing change and accepting new perspectives while honouring and reflecting upon our shared past and creating a better, more inclusive future, for all residents” says Calvez.