To: Geographical Names Board of Canada (GNBC), Government of Canada

We, the undersigned, respectfully petition for the renaming of the Gulf of Alaska to the Gulf of Canada to more accurately reflect the geographical and geopolitical realities of this critical water body.

Geographical Justification

1. F oundational Historical and Cultural Ties – Indigenous Peoples of Canada, including the Haida, Tlingit, and other coastal First Nations, have historically inhabited and relied upon the waters of this gulf for sustenance, navigation, and cultural identity. Many Canadian communities maintain deep ties to the region.
2. U nifying Proximity to Canada – The Gulf of Alaska is bordered directly by Canada. The Canadian coastline along this gulf is extensive, with many major Canadian rivers and inlets flowing into it.
3. C rucial Ecological and Maritime Resources – The marine environment of the Gulf of Alaska is integral to Canadian fisheries, biodiversity, and conservation efforts. Canada plays a significant role in the management and study of marine life and ecosystems within this region.
4. K ey Strategic and Economic Significance – The Gulf plays a crucial role in Canada’s maritime trade, particularly in connection with ports such as Prince Rupert, which is a major hub for trans-Pacific commerce. The economic and logistical ties of the region to Canada outweigh its connection to Alaska alone.
5. U nstable Geopolitical Reassessment – In response to shifting global politics and the increasing unpredictability of U.S. leadership under former President Donald Trump, it is essential for Canada to assert its identity and influence over geographic features that directly impact its economy and environment. Renaming the Gulf of Alaska to the Gulf of Canada would symbolize Canada’s commitment to protecting its maritime interests and distancing itself from erratic U.S. policy decisions that have historically impacted trade, climate agreements, and cross-border cooperation.

Precedents for Geographic Name Changes in Canada

1. D ecolonize - The renaming of Frobisher Bay to Iqaluit in 1987, reflecting Inuit heritage.
2. J urisdictional - The return of Haida Gwaii’s name from its colonial designation, Queen Charlotte Islands, in 2010.
3. T imely - The ongoing efforts to replace names that honour colonial figures with those that better reflect local and Indigenous history.

Conclusion

We urge the Canadian government, as well as international geographic naming authorities, to consider this name change as a meaningful step in accurately representing the region’s geography. Renaming the Gulf of Alaska to the Gulf of Canada aligns with Canada’s territorial influence, Indigenous heritage, and economic importance in the region.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a movement that seeks to correct an outdated geographical designation and ensure that Canada’s vital role in this region is recognized.

Sign the petition today to support this important change!