How did this vibrant neighborhood get its unique name? You’re standing at the edge of West Maka Ska, a community brimming with life and history. West Maka Ska wasn’t always its name. It was once known as West Calhoun, named after the nearby lake. But the lake’s name, originally Bde Maka Ska in the Dakota language, held a deeper meaning: “White Earth Lake” or “White Bank Lake.” This name reflected the area’s significance to the Dakota people long before European settlers arrived. In a move to honor its heritage and acknowledge the controversial past associated with John C. Calhoun, the lake’s namesake, the city made a change. In 2017, Bde Maka Ska was officially reinstated. This decision sparked a movement. The neighborhood followed suit, embracing its connection to the land and its history. West Maka Ska, now echoing the lake’s restored name, stands as a testament to the power of recognition and the importance of preserving cultural identity. West Maka Ska is more than just a neighborhood. It’s a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of the past and present.
The Afrocentric Spectrum Mural
What whispers do the walls of a city hold? The Afrocentric Spectrum Mural, here on University Avenue, speaks volumes about