The story of East Bde Maka Ska is one of transformation and resilience. You are standing in front of a neighborhood that has embraced its past and is looking forward to a brighter future. East Bde Maka Ska, formerly known as East Calhoun, has been a vibrant and diverse community for decades, but in recent years, it has undergone a significant name change. This shift was the culmination of community efforts to acknowledge the area’s rich Dakota history and make amends for past injustices. The neighborhood gets its name from the beautiful Bde Maka Ska, which translates to White Earth Lake in the Dakota language. It was once known as Lake Calhoun, named after a controversial figure from American history. The lake itself has been renamed to honor the Dakota people who lived in the area for centuries before European settlers arrived. In 2019, the East Calhoun Community Organization (ECCO) finally decided to change its name to East Bde Maka Ska, reflecting a commitment to justice and inclusivity. The change brought about a wave of positive change in the neighborhood, with residents continuing to celebrate their diverse community and embrace the spirit of Bde Maka Ska.
The Afrocentric Spectrum Mural
What whispers do the walls of a city hold? The Afrocentric Spectrum Mural, here on University Avenue, speaks volumes about