An area of Central Newfoundland from where Beothuk remains were removed almost two centuries ago will be renamed out of respect for its important Indigenous significance.

Red Indian Lake will be renamed ‘Wantaqo’ti Qospem’—a Mi’kmaq name meaning “peaceful lake.”

Sagamaw Mi’sel Joe of the Miawpukek First Nation came up with the name following government consultations with all Indigenous groups in the province.

The remains of two Beothuk—Nonosabasut and Demasduit—were removed from their resting place near the lake in the 1800s, but were returned to Newfoundland and Labrador last year from Scotland and have been at the Rooms ever since.

Lisa Dempster, the Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation, says that may soon change. She says there’s dialogue ongoing between government and Indigenous leaders, adding that the renamed site will likely be their final resting place.

Dempster says it’s a first step toward renaming sites around province to ensure they are appropriate in terms of Indigenous history.