The City of Vernon and the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) have unveiled an Indigenous name for the new Active Living Centre as construction nears completion.
The facility will also be known in nsyilxcən, the language of the syilx/Okanagan people, as snyaʕ̓tán, meaning “where they gather and play.”
The name was suggested by OKIB elders Pauline Archachan, Herbert Bonneau, Virginia Gregoire and Doreene Kaye.
“The City of Vernon has worked with our community to make sure our language, culture and identity are reflected in this new facility,” Chief Dan Wilson the OKIB said.
“Our people have been here since time immemorial, and it is important that the places we share recognize both our history and our continued presence here.”
The Indigenous name is displayed on the exterior of the building alongside the Active Living Centre name.
The announcement has also received mixed reactions online about its pronunciation and reason why officials have chosen an Indigenous name.
On a social media post, users wrote how the name will be difficult to say and would only refer to the facility as the Active Living Centre, along with how OKIB only collaborated in naming the facility rather funding the construction.
The city said the Indigenous name reflects the facility’s purpose as a gathering place and its connection to the community.
Other cultural features include nsyilxcən signage throughout the building and a salmon display that casts rainbow reflections along the lobby.
The Active Living Centre is the Vernon’s largest capital investment and represents a significant expansion of recreation opportunities in the community.
The facility includes a 50-metre pool, a 25-metre pool, leisure and wave pools, a waterslide, hot tubs, a cold plunge pool, a double gymnasium, fitness and wellness spaces and multipurpose areas.
Construction is now entering its final stages, with substantial completion anticipated Oct. 30.
The facility will then undergo six weeks of staff training, testing and final preparations before its planned public opening in December.
Membership presales are scheduled to begin Nov. 1.
