The Alaska Legislature has taken a formal stance against any potential efforts by President Donald Trump to revert the name of Denali back to its historical designation, Mount McKinley.

Denali, which means “the high one” in the native Athabaskan language, has been officially recognized as the name of North America’s tallest peak since 2015. The name McKinley was bestowed in honor of President William McKinley in 1896, but many feel that it disregards the mountain’s indigenous roots.

In a resolution passed recently, state lawmakers expressed their deep commitment to preserving the name Denali, which they argue honors the Alaska Native heritage and culture. This move reflects the broader sentiment among Alaskan residents who support retaining the mountain’s traditional name.

Legislators believe that changing the name back would reopen historical wounds, and that the current designation helps foster respect and acknowledgment for the original inhabitants of the region. Additionally, the naming debate symbolizes a larger conversation around indigenous rights and recognition in Alaska.

As discussions around national symbols and historic names continue to evolve, the Alaskan Legislature’s resolution represents a significant moment in affirming the importance of cultural identity within the state.

The ongoing dialogue regarding Denali’s name can be seen as part of a broader effort to recognize and appreciate the profound histories tied to indigenous communities, which continue to shape the unique cultural landscape of Alaska today.