Lincoln, ON – (September 13, 2024) – In the spirit of reconciliation, The Town of Lincoln is proud to announce a step towards fostering respect and understanding of Indigenous history, with a contribution towards the development of Sho’aríshon Park. This project will be the first public site in the Town of Lincoln dedicated to recognizing and creating awareness of the rich legacy of Indigenous Peoples, their culture, and their settlement in the area.
Located in a currently well-used passive greenspace, Sho’aríshon Park will be transformed into a cultural destination that celebrates contemporary Indigenous art and architecture. Visitors to the park will have the opportunity to engage with nature, history, and outdoor recreational and interpretive activities. The park will feature trails, gathering spaces, public art, placemaking features, storytelling interpretive signage, site furniture, a rain garden and enhanced planting. This development will also contribute to Lincoln’s growing ‘Cultural Corridor,’ connecting the park to the Lincoln Museum and Cultural Centre by road and hiking trail.
This project is funded in part through the Government of Canada’s Tourism Growth Program, delivered by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). This program supports the transformation of this public space into a hub of cultural and historical significance. Sho’aríshon Park will not only enhance the local community but also serve as a destination for tourists from Niagara and beyond, promoting the rich Indigenous heritage of the region in the spirit of reconciliation.
Quotes:
“The Government of Canada knows the value of supporting Indigenous history and projects, like the Town of Lincoln’s Sho’aríshon Park, where visitors will have the opportunity to see contemporary Indigenous arts and architecture. The Sho’aríshon Park is an important addition to the Town of Lincoln, and our government is pleased to support the transformation of this space.”
~ The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
“This is a historic moment for the Town of Lincoln as we take meaningful steps towards reconciliation by honouring the Indigenous Peoples who have shaped our community’s history. Sho’aríshon Park will serve as a place of learning, reflection and celebration, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Peoples is recognized and appreciated by all who visit.”
~ Her Worship, Sandra Easton, Mayor, Town of Lincoln
“Sho’aríshon Park is a testament to our commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement. This project will not only enhance the cultural offerings in Lincoln but will also strengthen our connections with Indigenous communities, fostering a deeper understanding and respect for their legacy.”
~ Michael Kirkopoulos, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Lincoln
“Sho’aríshon Park represents a significant milestone in our town’s journey toward reconciliation. This park will be a place where our community can come together to learn, reflect, and celebrate the rich heritage of Indigenous Peoples. It’s a proud moment for Lincoln, and I’m excited to see the positive impact this project will have for generations to come.”
~ Tony Brunet, Ward 2 Councillor and Chair of the Community Services and Infrastructure Committee, Town of Lincoln
“The Niagara Peninsula is replete with Indigenous history, and none more so than the Town of Lincoln where the Neutral Nation established its culture and nationhood. As the first people to encounter Europeans upon these lands, it is fitting we recognize their role in that engagement as well as the challenges they faced because of it. I congratulate everyone who has worked to establish Sho’aríshon (Neutral Nation) Park as an Indigenous heritage and legacy site of great meaning.”
~ Tim Johnson, Senior Advisor, Plenty Canada
For more information about the project and its impact on the community, please visit Speak Up Lincoln.