Watch: Renaming Squaxin Park
Squaxin Park is the new name for the regional destination formerly named Priest Point Park, and the City of Olympia has released a video that celebrates the cultural significance of this from the perspectives of the Squaxin and Olympia communities.
The Olympia City Council approved the renaming of Priest Point Park to Squaxin Park in April. The video provides a starting point for understanding the historic significance of the name change for park visitors and community members.
Squaxin Park is one of Olympia’s most beloved and visited parks for its beauty and the restorative nature of the landscape. Its former name was based on a brief period of time when it was home to a Catholic mission. The new name is a reminder that this land was home to the Steh-Chass band of indigenous people of the Squaxin Island Tribe long before it served as a mission or became a park. The park’s new name reflects a fuller version of its history and enduring cultural significance, and appropriately acknowledges the Tribe’s continued and valued presence in our community.
The video features footage of interviews from Squaxin Island Tribe Councilmembers and City of Olympia Councilmembers; and from the Indigenous Peoples' Day Celebration held in October 2022 at Squaxin Park.
Over time, the community will see the Squaxin Park renaming fully reflected in the entrance and directional signage throughout the park.
The City partnered with the Squaxin Island Tribe and worked with Sky Bear Media on the project.
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