Alaska legislature urges federal officials to keep Denali as mountain's name

Names in 2015 to restore the name Denali, which was officially recognized by the federal government in 2015; and

WHEREAS the name Denali reflects the cultural heritage of Alaska and honors the indigenous peoples of the region; and

WHEREAS maintaining the name Denali supports the state's commitment to recognizing and respecting its diverse history and traditions;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Alaska State Legislature urges the President of the United States, the United States Secretary of the Interior, the United States Board on Geographic Names, and the members of Alaska's congressional delegation to uphold Denali as the official name of the mountain.

The Alaska State Legislature has introduced House Joint Resolution 4 (HJR 4) on February 12, 2025, with the primary aim of reaffirming the name Denali for North America's tallest mountain. This resolution seeks to emphasize the cultural significance of the name, which is rooted in the Koyukon Athabaskan language and reflects the heritage of the indigenous peoples of Alaska.

Key provisions of the resolution highlight the historical context of the name Denali, noting its designation as the official name by the state in 1975 and its subsequent recognition by the federal government in 2015. The resolution underscores the belief among Alaskans that geographic names should be determined by local residents, further advocating for the preservation of the name Denali as a symbol of state identity.

The introduction of HJR 4 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and constituents, with some expressing strong support for the resolution as a means of honoring Alaska's indigenous culture. However, there are also voices of opposition, primarily from those who advocate for the mountain's original name, Mount McKinley, which was used for decades prior to the restoration of Denali.

The resolution carries significant cultural and political implications, as it not only seeks to maintain the name Denali but also reinforces the state's commitment to recognizing its indigenous heritage. Experts suggest that the passage of HJR 4 could strengthen Alaska's identity and promote a greater understanding of the state's diverse history.

As the resolution moves through the legislative process, it is expected to garner attention from both supporters and opponents, with potential implications for future discussions on indigenous rights and cultural recognition in Alaska. The Alaska State Legislature's call to action reflects a broader trend of honoring indigenous names and histories across the United States, positioning HJR 4 as a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about cultural identity and representation.