Who gets a voice when community heritage is honoured?

As National Indigenous History Month is observed across Canada, communities are encouraged to reflect on the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. It is also an opportunity to consider how heritage, recognition, and inclusion are approached in local decision-making.

Given that council was discussing a proposed Indigenous sculpture during National Indigenous History Month, it would have been an appropriate opportunity to formally proclaim June as National Indigenous History Month in Amherstburg. Such a proclamation would have reinforced the values of inclusion, recognition, and respect that are central to the very project under consideration and should guide how communities are honoured in our public spaces.

I am concerned by council’s May 25 decision to continue consulting exclusively with Caldwell First Nation regarding the proposed Indigenous sculpture for the Waterfront Plaza. Caldwell First Nation has historical ties to our area, but Indigenous peoples in Canada include First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. If the purpose of this sculpture is to honour Indigenous heritage and contributions, a broader range of Indigenous voices should be considered.

A permanent monument intended to represent Indigenous history should reflect the diversity of Indigenous voices, lived experiences, and understandings of history. Once installed, the sculpture will become part of Amherstburg’s story. For that reason, the process used to shape it is just as important as the final artwork itself.

This concern also raises questions about consistency. A previous council approved a motion supporting an Italian community sculpture in Navy Yard Park to recognize the contributions and heritage of Amherstburg’s Italian community. Council’s approved motion for the Italian community sculpture remains in place; however, the project has largely been at a standstill, with the community primarily responsible for fundraising and advancing it without comparable municipal support.

When some communities receive opportunities and support that others did not when their heritage is being honoured, residents question whether all groups are being treated equally. Fairness doesn’t diminish the importance of any one project; rather, it strengthens confidence that every community is valued and respected.

At its core, this issue is about consistency, inclusion, and equal treatment. Public monuments become part of a community’s identity and help tell its story for generations. As this matter returns to Council, I hope consideration will be given to ensuring that a broader range of Indigenous voices and community perspectives have an opportunity to be heard. Meaningful inclusion strengthens both the process and the final result, while reinforcing public confidence that all communities are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity.

—Alison Baldwin

Amherstburg

Who gets a voice when community heritage is honoured?