Trump restores Mount McKinley name amidst geographic naming controversy

In a significant move to celebrate American history and contributions, President Donald Trump issued an executive order shortly after taking office in January 2017. This action sought to change the name of Denali back to Mount McKinley, in commemoration of the 25th president of the United States, William McKinley. This decision came as a part of Trump's broader mission to reassert American values and recognize historical figures. The U.S. Board on Geographic Names, an established committee responsible for standardizing geographic names, was instructed to oversee the renaming process. The board's role dates back to 1906 when President Theodore Roosevelt emphasized the need for consistency in geographic nomenclature for federal uses. The board includes representatives from various federal agencies, showcasing the complexity and significance of names in U.S. history. This announcement evoked both support and opposition, especially considering the previous name change made by President Barack Obama in 2015, which established Denali as the official name for federal purposes, recognizing the cultural significance for Alaska Natives. The board has also actively worked to eliminate racist and derogatory names from the geographic lexicon, reflecting the nation's changing views on inclusivity and representation. In addition to changing peak names, the U.S. Board on Geographic Names serves as a forum for communities and organizations to propose new names that align with cultural heritage. For instance, the board had previously approved the renaming of Piestewa Peak in 2008 to honor Army Spc. Lori Piestewa, a Native American soldier. The policies governing these name changes underline the importance of local acceptance and involvement from various stakeholders. Overall, the renaming of geographic features plays a significant role in shaping the narrative of the nation, offering a profile of American history that encapsulates both its achievements and struggles. As these debates around naming conventions continue, they reflect deeper societal values and the ongoing relationship between the U.S. government and its diverse communities.