The City of Ottawa is developing a new swimming program to start in January 2023 and they are looking for the public’s help to name the levels!

The list of names for toddler classes was developed in consultation with the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation. The names are written in the Anishinabemowin Algonquin language, English and French. All of these can be found in the Ottawa River, making our swim classes truly local.

These include:

Amik / Beaver / Castor
Mikinàk / Turtle / Tortue
Nigig / Otter / Loutre
Àwadòsì / Minnow / Méné
Mànameg / Catfish / Barbotte
Nika / Goose / Oie
Ogà / Walleye / Doré
Omagakì / Frog / Grenouille
Màskinòje / Muskie / Maskinongé

You can help with some of the decisions that need to be made!

Choose colours for their six to 14 year-old levels, creatures for their three to five year-olds levels, and come up with original ideas for the under-3 toddler level names.

Residents can look for ballots at indoor pools. They’ll be given out at swimming lessons or can be requested at the front desk, even if you’re not currently registered for lessons.

Ballots need to be completed and put in the ballot box at one of the 18 locations by June 22. You can also enter for a chance to win a $50 gift card for City of Ottawa recreation and cultural activities.

Will you go and add your votes to the conversation? We’ve added copies of the ballots below for you to check out and talk about before heading in to submit your official ballots!